the Power of ”We”: Building Community as an Antidote to emotional Distress and Loneliness
A recent online conversation, hosted by the Spanish Red Cross Foundation as part of its ”#humanitary talent generating conversations” cycle, powerfully underscored a critical truth: emotional well-being isn’t a solitary pursuit, but a collective obligation. Featuring experts from the World Health Organization (WHO), the Spanish Ministry of health, and the International Federation of red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the discussion highlighted the vital role of robust community support networks in combating both emotional discomfort and the growing epidemic of structural loneliness.
The event, facilitated by Molo Cebrián, a professional bridging the fields of audiovisual communication and psychology, revealed a concerning trend: a significant portion of the population – over 40%, according to data from the Spanish Red Cross Foundation – feels their immediate surroundings don’t adequately prioritize emotional well-being. This points to a weakening of the very community ties that historically provided a buffer against hardship.
the conversation centered around the concept of Community Resilience – the ability of a group to withstand and recover from collective trauma, particularly in the face of social, climatic, or economic crises. Dr. María Neira of the WHO emphasized that a foundation for emotional health lies in a “healthy and safe habitat,” advocating for sustained public policies and community frameworks beyond clinical intervention. This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Francisco González aguado,who championed “mental health as a right,not a privilege,” and highlighted the new national mental health planS focus on strengthening support networks,especially for vulnerable populations.
International experience, shared by Greisy Trejo of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, revealed a surprising insight: the most resilient communities aren’t necessarily the wealthiest, but those that excel at collective organization, active listening, and responsive action. Crucially, Trejo stressed the importance of empowering community members themselves, respecting their unique cultural contexts and inherent capabilities.
A central theme throughout the discussion was the inadequacy of individual solutions for collectively-rooted suffering. As Cebrián succinctly put it, “Ther are discomforts that do not cure alone, because they did not originate in solitude.” The conversation aimed to dismantle the pervasive notion of mental health as a purely private matter, reframing it as a shared challenge demanding a collective response.
The event culminated in a powerful call to action from Fed to the Torre, Manager of the Spanish Red Cross Foundation, urging participants to translate the insights gained into tangible steps towards building stronger, more resilient communities.
This conversation, timed to coincide with World Mental Health Day (October 10th), represents the Spanish Red Cross’s ongoing commitment to promoting emotional well-being through prevention and a fundamental shift in perspective - recognizing that true healing happens not in spite of our connections to others, but as of them.
For more information: www.fundacioncruzroja.es
Download the statement: https://www2.cruzroja.es/documents/5640665/2974241758/NP-+POST-++Quinta+Conversaci%C3%B3n_FINAL.pdf/60ffcf81-5807-d59b-29dc-55963c0fb806?t=1759399762504