Day Two of Mental Health Summit focuses on substance abuse and suicide prevention

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — American Samoa's Licensed Professional Counselor with over four years of experience specializing in sports counseling, Ms Lelalelei Nomura on Day Two of the Mental Health Summit Thursday, November 2, 2023 spoke on the topics of Substance Use and Suicide Prevention. 

Ms Nomura holds a Master's degree in Clinical Counseling, and has built her therapeutic approach on a deep commitment to supporting her clients.

 She is the proud owner of the "Mind Gym" 

The Summit was broadcast live on Social Media, where the program host, Ms Julia Salilo Fo'ifua introduced Ms Nomura as creating’ a safe and transformative space for athletes of all levels.

"Her goal is to help individuals maximize their performance on and off the field by addressing the mental aspects of sports in life.

"This young woman is an unwavering advocate for harnessing the power of the human mind.”

She was noted as being the first American Samoa individual with credentials in this particular field.

 Ms Nomura said she was at the Summit with expert speakers, counselors and doctors, who would share their extensive knowledge, their experience and wisdom, and they would undoubtedly provide valuable insight and practical strategies addressing these complex issues — substance use and suicide prevention.  

 Further, she said, “Beyond the professional expertise we can expect to hear personal stories of triumph and resilience,” offering “us a glimpse into the real life journeys of individuals who have faced and overcome adversity.”

She pointed out that “their stories are a testament to the human spirits’ capacity for recovery.”

Ms Nomura noted that “one of the most significant aspects of this Summit is the opportunity to connect and build a sense of community, as we gather here we're not just attendees but we're active contributors to a larger conversation.

 "These conversations create a safe and non-judgmental space for sharing experiences and seeking solutions.

"So why are we here today? Well, we're here because we believe in the power of connection.

“The ability to turn even the most serious subjects into something more approachable.”

  Ms Nomura pointed out that discussing substance abuse, suicide prevention and mental health can be heavy, but it's essential that we do so with empathy understanding.

  "A dash of humor we all need that — so imagine this, you had a party and suddenly someone bursts into the room and says the air here is amazing you have to try it. 

"But no it's not some mysterious Alexa — it's the old oxygen that we often take for granted everyday.

“You see breathing is the fundamental act that we start when we're born and continue until you know when.

"So in the spirit of celebrating the wondrous process of breathing, let's kick off today with an exercise that will leave us all feeling like breathing connoisseurs.

“…So before we dive into the depth of today's topic let's embark on a breathing exercise called Laugh Out Loud long workout.

“…So I  want you to take a breathe in, imagine you're filling your lungs with laughter like you're about to tell the world's funniest joke.

"But that's because, just imagine you're sending positivity and strength to every corner of your body.

“It's not just about breathing, it's about taking a moment to appreciate the incredible gift of life itself.

"We all know that life can draw us some curveballs.

“Sometimes it's like catching a frisbee in the middle of a hurricane and other times it's like cruising on a smooth sailing yacht.

"But you know what it's about is acknowledging that in our lives no matter how challenging they may be there is beauty, there is strength and there is hope.”

In her therapeutic approach, Ms Nomura continued, "As we journey through the important subjects today let's remember that even in our darkest moments there's a spark within each of us.

“A spark that can ignite the path to recovery support and healing. 

"Now let's all take one last deep breath together and inhale, knowing that we're here to make a positive difference.

“Thank you for joining us on this journey to shine a light on these vital topics.

“Let's support one another, laugh together and tackle these issues."