Rubiella Toppenberg, a prevention specialist at the Aruba Anti-Drug Foundation (FADA), says that the organization has long focused on two key issues affecting the island: mental health and addiction.
In recent years, mental health has become an even greater priority. “That’s why we’re working on different projects and events that focus on this topic,” Toppenberg explains.
According to her, there is a growing interest in mental health across the community. FADA receives many questions from people who want to know how to support their own mental well-being. In response, FADA has partnered with Paper Sisters to host an event they describe as meaningful and rare for Aruba—one that addresses a clear and urgent need.
“We have a serious mental health problem in Aruba,” says Toppenberg. “That’s exactly why we need to keep raising awareness. Our next event will help many people who are trying to find balance and reduce the impact of mental health issues in their lives.”
She adds, “Opportunities like this don’t come around often, so I’m inviting the entire Aruban community to take part in this new project from FADA and Paper Sisters.”
Journaling workshop announced
Julissa Ras, owner of Paper Sisters, shared that the upcoming event will take place on June 28th. It’s a Journaling Workshop scheduled from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Boulevard Events. The session will introduce participants to the practice of journaling and how it can be used to support mental health.
“It will be an interactive workshop where we’ll share tips, ideas, and personal experiences related to journaling,” Ras said. “Each participant will receive a journal, pen, and other materials created by Paper Sisters and FADA.”
The workshop will also include conversations about mental health and how journaling can be a useful tool to cope with emotional and psychological challenges.
