Carmen Llanes, a 51-year-old resident of Barcelona, whose journey is a powerful testament to resilience and hope, is one of the co-creators of the MENTBEST project. Her personal journey with Major Depression has inspired her to champion mental health awareness.
Supported by her husband and daughter, Carmen leads a fulfilling life. This positivity reflects her dedication to fostering meaningful connections and supporting others facing similar struggles. Through her work with Fundacion Ments Despertes, Carmen engages with teenagers aged 14 to 18, aiming to normalize conversations about mental health. Her message to young people emphasizes the strength found in vulnerability.
Talking to youth about mental health is critical,” she asserts. “We need to shift perspectives to eliminate stigma.” This advocacy has laid the foundation for her valuable contributions to the MENTBEST project.
Carmen plays an important role in the MENTBEST project by taking part in workshops and webinars that help create tools like the COMBINA intervention and the MENTINA app to support mental health. Co-creators like Carmen are involved in every part of the project, working together with others to improve these tools and ensure they meet the needs of the people they aim to help. This includes building community-based programs like COMBINA and using innovative technology, such as the MENTNA app, to help people monitor and manage their mental health. Carmen’s work shows how important the co-creators are in shaping practical and meaningful solutions across the entire project. Reflecting on her experience, she shares: “Being part of this project has been incredible. We’re not just creating resources; we’re building a community of support for those who need it most.”
Bridging Cultures and Breaking Stigma
However, her journey with the MENTBEST project has not been without challenges. Language barriers initially posed significant hurdles, making communication and participation overwhelming for Carmen.
At times, I struggled,” she admits, “but the support from my peers, especially Albert from Catalonia, made all the difference. Together, we learned and grew.”
This experience underscores the importance of fostering a supportive community within the project, where co-creators can rely on shared experiences to overcome obstacles. To address such language barriers more effectively, the project implemented tailored solutions, such as multilingual support during workshops and webinars, real-time translation tools, or dedicated language training for participants. These measures ensured that all co-creators, regardless of their linguistic backgrounds, feel empowered and fully integrated into the collaborative process.
A particularly impactful moment occurred during an online meeting when a co-creator from Albania shared her challenges in addressing mental health openly. “Her story opened my eyes to the depth of stigma in some cultures,” Carmen recalls. “It reinforced the necessity of our work in MENTBEST.” Such moments fuel Carmen’s dedication. She believes in the transformative power of sharing personal stories. “Every story matters,” she emphasizes.
If we can encourage even one person to speak about their struggles, we’ve made progress.” By actively participating, Carmen not only uplifts others but also grows in her own understanding and skills.
Professional Development and Meaningful Connections
The MENTBEST project offers co-creators opportunities for professional growth and development. “This project has enriched my life,” Carmen notes. “It provides valuable experiences and enhances my CV while allowing me to help others.” Additionally, the peer network formed through the project foster meaningful collaborations and mutual support. “Building these connections has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey,” she adds. MENTBEST also acknowledges the contributions of its co-creators by offering financial reimbursements. “This recognition validates our efforts and motivates us to continue our advocacy,” Carmen shares.
Carmen Llanes embodies the spirit of the MENTBEST project, her journey a testament to courage, hope, and a steadfast commitment to mental health advocacy. Through her experiences, she underscores the power of shared stories and the enduring strength of community. As she continues as a co-creator, Carmen embraces both the challenges and triumphs ahead.
Together, we’re making a difference, and I’m proud to be part of this vital project,” she affirms. With her fellow co-creators, Carmen is helping to break down barriers, normalize mental health discussions, and foster a world where compassion thrives, and every voice is heard.
Exploring Co-Creation in Mental Health
Co-creation is a transformative process that prioritizes collaboration, uniting individuals from diverse backgrounds to craft solutions that genuinely resonate with those impacted. In mental health projects, this approach proves essential, as it draws from varied experiences and perspectives to develop inclusive and impactful interventions. The MENTBEST project embodies this strategy by actively engaging co-creators, ensuring that its interventions are tailored to the authentic needs of vulnerable communities, fostering inclusivity and lasting impact.