Activity
To strengthen mental health support for persons with disabilities and their family members, on June 10th and 12th, 2026, the Action to the Community Development Institute (ACDC), in coordination with the Department of Health, organized the first meetings of three mental health support groups in Vinh Hoang, Gio Linh, and Trieu Phong communes. The activity is part of the project “Independent living and social inclusion for persons with disabilities in Quang Tri, Vietnam” funded by Green Cross Switzerland (GCCH) through ACDC.
The facilitator introduced the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, helping group members better understand how to recognize and care for their mental well-being in daily life
The sessions brought together nearly 30 persons with disabilities and family members. Under the theme “Group Introduction and Understanding Mental Health,” the program was designed as an interactive experience, creating a safe space for participants to get acquainted, build connections, and gradually share their personal experiences.
Initial hesitation quickly gave way to laughter and positive interactions among participants. Group members worked together to choose group names, elect group leaders, establish group rules, and share their expectations through the “Expectation Tree” activity. During the sessions, participants learned basic concepts of mental health, common signs of stress, anxiety, and depression, and discussed misconceptions and stigma related to mental health within the community. Through case-based questions and group discussions, participants had opportunities to express their views, share personal experiences, and listen to different perspectives.
Members of the mental health support groups participated in the sessions in an open and friendly atmosphere, listening to and sharing experiences while building connections within the group
One of the most engaging activities focused on exploring the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Using practical examples from everyday life, facilitators helped participants recognize how their thoughts influence their feelings and actions, encouraging more positive thinking patterns to enhance mental well-being. Participants also practiced deep-breathing relaxation techniques-a simple yet effective method for reducing stress and regulating emotions. Many reported feeling calmer and more relaxed after the exercise and recognized its usefulness in daily life.
The sessions were lively, open, and filled with empathy. For many participants, it was their first opportunity to learn about mental health and to share personal experiences and emotions in a safe and respectful environment.
Facilitators and family members practiced deep-breathing relaxation techniques, a simple method that helps reduce stress, regulate emotions, and strengthen self-care skills
Ms. N.T.V., a group member from Gio Linh commune, shared: “Previously, I did not really understand what mental health meant, and I rarely had opportunities to talk about my feelings. Participating in today’s session made me feel happy and comfortable. Everyone in the group was friendly and open, which helped me feel closer to others and more confident in sharing my thoughts. I hope to continue attending future sessions to learn more useful things for myself.”
Through these group activities, the project aims to help persons with disabilities and their family members improve their understanding of mental health, strengthen self-care skills, and build peer-support networks within the community. The groups will continue to meet regularly in the coming months, covering a range of practical topics to improve quality of life and promote the social inclusion of persons with disabilities in Quang Tri Province.
Translator: Nguyen Dac Thanh
