Photo credit: www.cbsnews.com
The Impact of the Friendship Bench: A Mental Health Initiative Revolutionizing Support
Dr. Dixon Chibanda recalls a life-altering moment from 2005 when a patient named Erica tragically took her own life. This event left a profound impact on him, leading him to reconsider how mental health support could be better delivered in Zimbabwe, where resources were scant and accessibility was limited.
Erica, just 25 years old, had been unable to receive the help she needed due to significant barriers. “Her family was over 200 miles from the hospital, and they couldn’t afford the bus fare, which was around US$15,” he explained, highlighting the dire circumstances surrounding mental health care access in the country.
In Zimbabwe, there were only 10 psychiatrists available for a population of 13 million, prompting Chibanda to explore innovative solutions. He considered the potential of enlisting local grandmothers—community pillars often steeped in cultural wisdom—to act as initial points of contact for individuals in need of mental health support. “These grandmothers have deep roots in their communities and can provide empathetic listening,” he noted. “What if we could train them to offer support?”
Introducing the Friendship Bench
In 2006, Chibanda launched the “Friendship Bench,” a community-based initiative aimed at providing accessible talk therapy. The program relies on volunteers, primarily older women, who are willing to dedicate their time to help others for free.
The concept gained momentum when, initially dubbed the Mental Health Bench, it faced stigma that deterred people from seeking help. The rebranding to the Friendship Bench helped reduce this barrier, encouraging individuals to utilize the service without fear of judgment. Over its first year, 14 grandmothers successfully engaged with hundreds of community members, setting a strong precedent for the program’s growth.
Today, the Friendship Bench has expanded to include over 3,000 trained older listeners who collectively reached more than 300,000 people across Zimbabwe in the previous year. Chibanda emphasizes the importance of human connection in mental health, stating, “Many people are simply looking for a space to connect with someone who understands.”
Global Reach and Relevance
According to the World Health Organization, nearly 300 million individuals globally experience depression, yet only about a third receive adequate treatment. This reality becomes even more pressing amid rising levels of loneliness, particularly highlighted in recent Gabup polls, where one in five adults in the U.S. reported feelings of isolation. In response, the Friendship Bench model is now being implemented in nine countries, including the United States, targeting vulnerable communities.
The program is currently being piloted at the Washington Seniors Wellness Center by HelpAge USA, a nonprofit focused on elder inclusion. Participants like 74-year-old Arnette Ibitayo, who has endured significant loss, have found solace through this initiative. “Talking to someone made me feel less isolated and provided comfort and advice,” she shared about her experience, reinforcing the importance of the support system offered by the Friendship Bench.
Transformative Outcomes
Theresa Kelly, a retired schoolteacher serving as a volunteer listener, emphasizes the empowering nature of the program. “We don’t solve problems for them; we aim to help individuals realize their own capabilities,” she said, illustrating the focus on fostering self-efficacy among participants.
While serious cases are referred to professional services, Chibanda has dedicated nearly two decades to researching and refining the program’s approach, discovering that these community volunteers often achieve better outcomes in alleviating anxiety and depressive symptoms compared to traditional mental health professionals.
Arnette Ibitayo noted the positive difference after just one session, expressing, “I felt more at ease. It worked. I feel hopeful for the future.” This reflects a growing acknowledgment of the wisdom and experience that older adults bring to mental health support.
Dr. Chibanda attributes part of the program’s success to the rich life experiences of the grandmothers involved. “They carry not only personal stories but the lessons learned throughout life, which are invaluable in connecting with those seeking help,” he explained. This approach not only benefits listeners but also offers a meaningful purpose to the volunteers, as expressed by Kelly: “It’s fulfilling to continue making a difference in people’s lives after retirement.”
For more info:
Story produced by Robbyn McFadden. Editor: Joseph Frandino.
If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress or crises, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for help, or chat with them online.
For further details on mental health resources, contact the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).
See also:
More from CBS News
Source
www.cbsnews.com