Creating a caring society

There is something wrong with the society that we have built together.

Firstly, it is sorely missing that those of us living near one another view ourselves as a community where we aim to support each other. We need a society where everyone can thrive, has sufficient means to live comfortably, and believes that they matter and have a meaningful role in this world.

Currently, individuals receive no assistance until a crisis occurs, and even then, support is lacking. While there are healthcare services for the sick and social programs for those requiring aid, there is a notable absence of a proactive prevention system.

People come from various backgrounds, but everyone needs support, not just those dealing with hardships or societal issues. Everyone can benefit from having someone to trust. While some have a supportive family, others may be on their own. Support is crucial for individuals at every stage of life, from infancy to old age.

Where can individuals find support? From aid and charity organizations striving to assist, counsel, and educate individuals? Within religious communities in a society where many have abandoned their faith and thus find no solace in that realm? Of course, individuals are not obligated to have faith or engage in spiritual practices. However, this may increase pressure on the welfare system and the support available in secular society.

Every individual faces challenges and requires someone to confide in. The nature of these challenges varies depending on the stage of life: young individuals seek guidance in choosing their career path, soon-to-be parents seek assistance in their parenting journey, and individuals nearing retirement seek advice on how to make the most of their senior years.

Not everyone has a support system for guidance and advice during difficult times. Access to an impartial individual who can offer a listening ear and valuable advice would benefit everyone, regardless of their life stage or obstacles.

Imagine if we had a designated public health officer we would see every six months or annually to assess our well-being, similar to how we visit the dentist once a year for a check-up on our oral health.

A public health officer could become the primary point of contact for assessing individuals' mental and physical well-being by completing a specific undergraduate course. This individual would not necessarily need a medical, nursing, or psychological background but should primarily excel as a compassionate listener with knowledge of available resources for those requiring further assistance.

A public health officer would oversee individuals' handling of life's difficulties, offer guidance on addressing any physical or mental ailments, and make referrals to specialists when necessary. Their purpose would be to support individuals as they navigate through life.

While some individuals may require additional assistance, others may feel lonely. If someone is experiencing discomfort that could have gone unnoticed, engaging in a conversation might bring it to light, enabling the person to be noticed and offered assistance.

People frequently find themselves lost when they are unsure of how to navigate their circumstances. Often, individuals must vocalize their concerns and be reassured that their emotions and thoughts are valid. A public health advocate can assist individuals at a crossroads who need guidance in making decisions or coping with life changes, as changes can be challenging, even when positive.

Feeling insignificant as an individual is common. Having access to someone to rely on, knowing that you can meet your representative once or twice a year for a conversation, to ask questions and seek advice, may be sufficient to realize that someone recognizes and listens to you, making you feel part of a community.