Community Wellness Response
What is Community Wellness?
Community wellness refers to the overall health—physical, mental, emotional, and social—of a group of people who live in the same area or share common interests. It’s about creating environments that support healthy living and foster a sense of belonging, safety, and purpose.
Examples of Community Wellness Initiatives That Support Mental Health
- Peer support groups
- Community gardens
- Mindfulness and meditation workshops
- Public spaces designed for social interaction and relaxation (parks, community centers)
- Youth mentoring programs
- Mental health first aid training for community leaders
Why It Matters
Community wellness that includes a focus on mental health leads to:
- Lower rates of mental illness
- Increased quality of life
- Stronger community ties
- A more productive and engaged population
Community SDOH Workshop/Training Series
Georgia CEAL RESTORES will evaluate the effectiveness of capacity building for diabetes prevention in priority communities. In collaboration with Georgia Watch, we aim to enhance civic engagement strategies related to diabetes and social determinants of health (SDOH).
Georgia CEAL RESTORES will collaborate with Southeastern Primary Care Consortium, Inc. Atlanta Area Health Education Center (SPCC Atlanta AHEC) to provide Mental Health First Aid trainings to community health advocates. The training will help supporters identify and understand how to respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among adults.
Our focus is on training and empowering community health advocates, including community health workers, young adults, and faith-based leaders. This initiative will provide essential supporter skills and resources to mobilize marginalized communities around health issues.
Community Wellness & Mental Health: How They Intersect
Social Connection & Support
Humans are social creatures, and strong networks within a community can help protect against mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Community wellness initiatives aim to create opportunities for connection, reducing loneliness and isolation.
Access to Mental Health Resources
A strong community provides access to mental health services such as counseling and support groups. Wellness programs can offer free or low-cost services and education to reduce stigma and promote help-seeking.
Reducing Stigma
Communities prioritizing wellness encourage open conversations about mental health, reducing stigma around seeking support. Events like Mental Health Awareness Month can promote understanding and acceptance.
Safe and Inclusive Environments
Feeling safe and accepted is crucial for mental wellness. Inclusive communities that promote equity and cultural understanding enhance mental health. Reducing discrimination and providing safe spaces can greatly improve well-being.
Promoting Healthy Lifestyles
Community wellness programs often encourage physical activities, access to healthy foods, and recreational activities—all of which benefit mental health. Exercise, for example, can help reduce stress and improve mood.
Building Resilience
Communities that work together can build resilience after adversity, whether it’s a natural disaster, economic hardship, or social injustice. Resilient communities provide emotional support, practical resources, and a sense of hope that helps individuals cope with challenges.
Civic Supporter Workshop
Since its launch in 2019, hundreds of Georgians have participated in the Georgia Watch Civic Supporter training. Created in partnership with Community Voices for Health—Georgia (CVHG), the training consists of six core modules covering leadership, advocacy, community engagement, providing testimony, and storytelling. Additionally, we offer an informative presentation on “how a bill becomes a law in Georgia” and an overview of the state budget process. Participants then pitch to a panel of experts, receiving valuable feedback, further empowering them to become stronger advocates to produce effective change in their communities. What you will gain:
Practical Supporter Skills
Networking Opportunities
Certificate of Participation
Mental Health First Aid Training
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) teaches you how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among adults. The training provides individuals with initial skills to help and support someone who may be suffering from a mental issue or substance use problem.
Mental Health First Aid improves understanding and provides an action plan to teach individuals the proper protocols to identify and address problems associated with substance abuse and mental health.
For more information, visit the Mental Health First Aid website