As conversations around mental health continue to gain momentum, Jhanille Brooks hopes to make a meaningful contribution with her new book, Metamorphosis. Through it, she aims to provide practical tools to help people navigate the emotional challenges that often go unnoticed.
“As the stigma surrounding mental health decreases and more people begin to go to therapy, I realise the need to provide tools to help persons on their mental health journey. Brooks explained to Lifestyle. People still associate the topic of mental health with depression and schizophrenia, not focusing on emotional intelligence and regulation, or recognising how emotions such as anger, resentment and grief affected their mental health. So, Metamorphosis is about the complex challenges facing our mental health.”
She explained that her book isn’t about traditional healing, but focuses on tangible transformation, offering a clear understanding of emotional and mental health. Metamorphosis includes practical tools like activities and journal prompts to navigate emotional obstacles and promote self-awareness, while also exploring emotions such as grief, anxiety, and heartbreak.
Prior to being a mental health advocate, Brooks would escape the stresses of this world through literary adventures. Her love for reading later unlocked a great joy for writing stories and poetry.
As a teenager, she discovered several coping mechanisms, including exercise, extracurricular activities like dancing and piano, building a supportive circle of friends, and strengthening her relationship with God.
“I had always had an interest in helping others, especially other young people. My inspiration first emerged through being a camp counsellor at Moorlands Camp. I was able to identify that even teens were carrying emotional burdens,” she shared.
Her interest grew after volunteering with a counselling programme at university, leading her to want to switch her major from business to psychology. Although the institution didn’t allow the transition, she used her free electives to take psychology courses.
GRIEF KNOCKED AT HER DOOR
Despite her best efforts, nothing could prepare her for when grief came knocking at her door during college, “After experiencing the death of my friend in my final year, I decided to engage in the counselling services that the school offered. This process was very helpful for me. I found such relief in having an emotional outlet during a very hard time in my life.”
Recognising the importance of mental health and the need for greater access to care, she pursued a master’s in counselling and, in 2013, co-founded the Jamaica Mental Health Advocacy Network with four associates.
Since then, the licensed associate counselling psychologist has been actively championing change the approach towards mental health, with 15 years of experience in the field.
Geared towards anyone in the cocoon of life, Metamorphosis aims to foster growth, change, and personal improvement.
The professional spent a year and a half penning her words, creating this practical guide while balancing work and everyday life, before beginning the publishing process with Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing.
“I mostly wrote when the words came and then I had scheduled writing times. I drew on stories from my own life and matched them back to the various topics. It was nice to be able to reflect on some of those memories, laugh and celebrate my own growth,” she pointed out.
Her first piece of advice to someone struggling mentally and isn’t sure about what to do, is to remind them that they’re not alone, even if it feels that way. “It’s okay to not have all the answers right now. Secondly, start with small steps; reach out to someone you trust, like a friend, family member, teacher or mentor, and share how you’re feeling. Writing your thoughts down can be a good way to untangle them. Be gentle with yourself, your thoughts and feelings are valid,” she said, continuing, “And don’t be afraid to seek professional help where it is required. You never know; it just might put your pain into perspective and save your life.
Read More: Jhanille Brooks’ ‘Metamorphosis’ explores practical tools for mental health
