PRAIRIE VIEWTexas (Oct. 11, 2024) – Fresh off World Mental Health Day, Prairie View A & M University visits expert Dr. LaDrea Ingram advises practicing self-care and self-love.
Now, Dr. LaDrea Ingram is a research scientist in public health at the Yale School of Public Health. He joined the School of Public Health and the PVAMU Alliance for the academic year 2024-2025 through the Alliance for Scholarship, Collaboration, Engagement, Networking and Development (ASCEND) project, which seeks to strengthen the collaboration of Yale University and black colleges and universities.
“I joined PVAMU because of its commitment to advancing health equity and fostering an inclusive learning environment through its partnership with Yale University’s ASCEND HBCU initiative,” said Dr. Ingram. “At PVAMU, I participate in strategic planning and development of cooperation and public education strategies.”
Dr. Ingram received her doctorate in health education and behavioral studies from Columbia University, Teachers College. He also received a Master of Arts in government from Johns Hopkins University and a Master of Science in health and medical policy from George Mason University.
During Mental Illness Awareness Week, she discussed her research, social welfare and best practices for intervention.
Q: What is mental health and why is it important?
Ingram: To me, mental health means the appreciation and care of emotional and mental health, acknowledging the equal importance of physical health. The change in the understanding of mental health includes great degrees, from the feeling of stigma to the limited recognition of its problems. Today, mental health manifests itself in a variety of ways, including anxiety, depression and substance use disorders. It is important to discuss mental health as it affects all aspects of life, it affects personal health, social relationships, and community health.
Q: What is the focus of your mental health research?
Ingram: My research focuses on developing culturally responsive practices for mental health and substance abuse issues, particularly among underserved and disadvantaged communities. These projects promote community participation, combining cultural values and community strengths to create effective support systems. Culturally responsive interventions differ from traditional approaches by acknowledging and incorporating the unique cultural contexts of individuals, promoting effective and sustainable outcomes. The prevalence of mental health issues today is a result of societal stressors, including economic fragmentation and the fast pace of modern life. My research sheds light on the powerful impact of systemic inequality on mental health, particularly in disadvantaged communities where access to care and support is often lacking.
Q: What made you interested in this field?
Ingram: I grew up in Lockport, New York, a small town in Western New York, and it really shaped who I am today. Surrounded by the unwavering love of my family, I learned the importance of resilience and the strength found in social support systems. Even as a child, I was a strong advocate for justice, passionately believing that everyone deserves a chance to live a meaningful life. These early values instilled in me a deep respect for public health and wellness, guiding my career path to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
Q: In this era of focus on mental health, what should people be aware of?
Ingram: Another effective step to improving your mental health is to focus on self-care and practice self-love. Take time to take care of yourself, making sure to prioritize activities that bring you joy and relaxation. This commitment to self-care can help reduce stress and improve mental health, strengthening your mind and spirit. Remember, self-love is the basic formula that boosts your well-being.
Written by Christine Won
-PVAMU-
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