Accessible Mental Health for All
Shenal Harakh is the founder of her eponymous software development agency Shenal
(www.shenal.online), which builds tech products for startup clients around the world.
She is currently based in Fiji and is running workshops to digitally upskill communities. Head to
HttPs://fiJI.sHENAL.ONLINE/ to sign up and keep up to date with new workshops, or follow her work on LinkedIn: Shenal Harakh or
Twitter: @shenalyo.
HJOSEPH’S JOURNEY TO JOY
ailing from the hidden paradise of Savusavu, Fiji, Joseph Snodgrass, with maternal roots tracing back to Waitovu, Ovalau, has transformed his struggles into triumphs, and a passion for mental wellness for all in Fiji.
“My journey started 12 years after I attempted suicide. I had been facing a lot of changes socially and physically, on top of already deeprooted issues,” Mr Snodgrass said. “I thank God that it was not successful, as I wouldn’t be where I am today”.
Navigating various career endeavours, from call centres to hospitality, Mr Snodgrass’ turning point came amidst the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic, when he discovered a newfound passion for empathy and human connection. “When COVID struck, it was a time of realisation for me,” Mr. Snodgrass said. “I discovered my passion for being an empath and a listener. I started by holding space for friends and doing humanitarian work, such as creating care packages and providing free rides to supermarkets for the women in my neighbourhood. “This made me realise that I wanted to be a counsellor.”
Since 2022, Mr. Snodgrass pursued higher education, obtaining qualifications in counselling and graduating last year.
This achievement marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life’s work which he describes as “the ultimate gift”.
Mr Snodgrass’ dedication to mental health advocacy extends beyond his network, as he also the Interim President of Fiji Counsellors Association — an organisation whose goal is to build a supportive community for counsellors and ensure quality mental health care is accessible to all in Fiji.
FIJI COUNSELLORS ASSOCIATION
“The association, was established last year by a few passionate counsellors from various organisations, who shared the goal of ensuring safety for the counselling practise in Fiji,” Mr Snodgrass said.
“We aim to support and promote the counselling profession in Fiji.”
The association conducts professional development activities through training and workshops, advocacy for mental health recognition, networking opportunities for counsellors, upholding professional standards and ethics, and raising public awareness about the importance of mental health and counselling.
MENTAL HEALTH CARE
The evolution of mental health care has seen its obstacles, however, there is also cause for optimism as Fiji continues to acknowledge and confront mental health challenges, including the ongoing battle against stigma and discrimination.
“Fiji’s mental health care has always been heavily institutionalised for the reason that our first mental health hospital was founded back in 1884,” Mr. Snodgrass said.
“This history means that people often think anyone feeling stressed or anxious needs psychiatric help, which leads to stigma and ridicule instead of understanding.
“Despite efforts to raise awareness and improve services, there’s still a shortage of trained professionals and resources.”
THE WEBSITE-BUILDING JOURNEY
Committed to increasing awareness of mental health services in Fiji, the Fiji Counsellors Association built a website to support their upcoming registration drive.
“I had recently completed training with Shenal to create our website. This training introduced me to Softr, which offered a cheaper and more effective option than our previous setup. All the data is stored in one place on Airtable and is easily linked to other apps.” Mr. Snodgrass said.
“Building the website was easy, quick, and the training allowed me to understand the basics”.
THE FUTURE OF MENTAL HEALTH CARE
In a country where mental health care remains heavily institutionalised and stigmatised, Mr Snodgrass envisions a future where access to quality care is universal and stigma is replaced with understanding and compassion.
“Improving mental health care in Fiji means putting more money into services and hiring more professionals,” Mr Snodgrass said. “Raising public awareness is key to reducing stigma and encouraging people to seek help.”
As Mr Snodgrass and Fiji Counsellors Association continue to work for a brighter future in mental health, he offers words of wisdom to aspiring counsellors and individuals seeking to prioritise their mental well-being.
“If you’re interested in a career in mental health, start by studying psychology or counselling and gain experience through volunteering or internships,” Mr Snodgrass said.
“Connect with professionals in the field to learn from their experiences and build a network. Stay passionate and patient, as helping others can be challenging but incredibly
rewarding.”
For those at home, Mr Snodgrass recommends spending time with loved ones, being active, eating well, and getting enough sleep for those at home looking to take small steps toward mental wellbeing.