Omaina Ozako, a Nigerian-born mental health professional and storyteller joins host Jacqueline to discuss the close connection between Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) and mental health. Together, they have an unfiltered conversation about stigma, trauma, and the role of culture and community in breaking the silence around mental health and SRHR. Omaina shares her journey to social work and insights as a therapist who is passionate about ensuring people feel seen, heard and validated on their journeys. They discuss factors that impact people’s access to SRHR and mental health and share personal stories to normalize opening up and getting support. The conversation highlights the importance of societal approaches to meeting individuals’ needs and recognizing the vital role of mental health in young people’s overall health and well-being.

Resources:

Kids Help Phone: https://kidshelpphone.ca/

Youth Mental Health Canada: https://ymhc.ngo/

Canadian Mental Health Association: https://cmha.ca/

Hope for Wellness: https://www.hopeforwellness.ca/

Black Youth Helpline: https://blackyouth.ca/

Suicide Crisis Helpline: https://988.ca/

Child Helpline International: https://childhelplineinternational.org/

*SHE SOARS, funded by Global Affairs Canada, is the Sexual and reproductive Health and Economic empowerment Supporting Out-of-school Adolescent girls’ Rights and Skills project. Learn more at: https://care.ca/shesoarsproject

Episode transcripts are available in French and English at: care.ca/shesoars.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the SHE SOARS podcast are the speakers’ own and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, standards and policies of CARE Canada. The SHE SOARS podcast is a youth-led initiative that provides space for young people to discuss global Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights with the purpose of raising awareness in Canada. Listeners acknowledge that the material and information presented in the podcast are for informational purposes only and do not constitute advice or services. The podcast is for private, non-commercial use and speakers do not necessarily reflect any organization they work for.