MCIL Comes Together for Mental Health Awareness Week
Published 9 October 2026
Staff went green, shared their stories in an open talanoa fa'asoa and joined the Ministry of Health's Mental Health Awareness Walk as MCIL marked Mental Health Awareness Week.
The Ministry came together for a moving and memorable Mental Health Awareness Week, celebrating mental well-being as the foundation of our daily lives, our families and our workplace. Here is a look back at how we honoured this vital cause.
Going Green for Mental Health
Our office became a vibrant sea of green as staff stood united to break the stigma around mental health and to spread a message of hope.
Talanoa Fa'asoa: Real Voices, Real Change
Guided by this year's theme, "Lived experience heard: real voices, real change", we created a safe space for an open talanoa fa'asoa. Staff bravely shared personal testimonies, self-reflections and honest moments of vulnerability. Through peer support, we explored practical ways to prioritise mental wellness at work and at home, and were reminded that listening with empathy is what drives real change.
Future Initiatives and Employee Assistance
Our commitment does not end here. Inspired by these conversations, the Ministry is rolling out new initiatives, including an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), to provide ongoing professional support for our staff. We are dedicated to making the Ministry a safe place for everyone.
Mental Health Awareness Walk
To close the week, the Ministry joined the Mental Health Awareness Walk hosted by the Ministry of Health. Walking side by side with our community was a powerful reminder that no one walks this journey alone.
Blessings for White Sunday (Lotu a Tamaiti)
As we look ahead to this weekend, the Ministry extends its warmest love and prayers to all the children of Samoa for White Sunday. Our children are the heart of our homes and our future, and nurturing their mental, emotional and spiritual well-being is the greatest gift we can give them. Manuia tele le Lotu a Tamaiti to all our precious children.
We stand in proud solidarity with the Samoan Public Service, our nation and the world in advocating for mental health. Your voice matters. You are seen, heard and valued. Let us keep caring for one another and making our mental well-being a priority every single day.
