By Gracie Babatola, Program Assistant
The holiday season, a time of joy and connection, can also bring unique challenges. For those grappling with stress, loneliness, or financial strain, HCN stands as a vital resource.
Today, we’re excited to introduce you to Jamal Cameron, our Clinical Director! Jamal shares his perspective on fostering mental well-being during the holidays, the transformative work of HCN, and his vision for supporting the community into the new year.
Rooted in his lived experiences and unwavering commitment to service, Jamal speaks to the heart of HCN’s mission: centering the needs of marginalized communities while providing culturally responsive and accessible care. As he works to develop groundbreaking initiatives, including San Francisco’s first Substance Use Disorder (SUD) program focused on early intervention and outpatient care for Black youth, Jamal reflects on the power of collaboration, authenticity, and compassion in creating lasting impact.
This conversation illuminates the resilience and hope that underscore HCN’s work, offering practical advice for navigating the pressures of the season and an invitation to connect with resources that foster healing and growth.
Tell me a little bit about yourself and what drew you to this work?
I’m a son, a cousin, a human being, and a Black American man in this country, all of which drew me to this line of work. I have a passion to help other people. More specifically, what drew me to HCN was that its mission was and is one and the same as my own, being able to work in a program that sees the experiences of those in this community and not push them to the side but center them.
Can you share a bit about your role as Clinical Director at HCN and what types of work you do day to day?
My role is flexible; overall it looks like supporting everyone in the clinical space. That includes having one-on-ones with the clinical supervisor and/or answering daily questions that might arise. Currently, I am working to help develop our Substance Use Disorder (SUD) program. This program is a first of its kind in the City. We will be able to provide early intervention and outpatient services for youth in the community, with our proven. culturally affirming mental health care for those that identify as Black.
What is your favorite part of working at HCN, and what impact do you hope to make through your leadership?
My favorite part is getting to interact with the staff; everyone here is so wonderful and supportive. People have the mindset of working together to achieve collective goals. In my role, I hope to stand by the things that I say and build connections with my community and other grassroots organizations.
How do HCN's programs address the mental health needs of underserved communities, especially during stressful times like the holidays?
One of the foundational pieces of our upcoming SUD program is centering the perspectives of the communities we are working to serve. Holidays bring up a lot for people, especially family dynamics. HCN has the programs and infrastructure to help support those that are going through a lot at this time of year. During this time of year, we see people struggling with depression, anxiety, and loneliness, and it’s the end of semester for those in school.
How can individuals manage the pressure of holiday expectations, such as family obligations or financial strain?
There are no such things as good or bad emotions, there are just emotions and how we respond to them. Acknowledging our feelings is the first step; it’s okay to acknowledge the different feelings this time can bring for you. From there, it’s about figuring out what we can do about these feelings in a constructive way. That can look like reaching out to others, engaging in activities, and being mindful of what one’s holiday expectations are. Additionally, it’s helpful to have the perspective that this time is about more than material goods. Go out, engage with others, and offer the support you can to those in your community.
What specific programs and support does HCN offer to help clients with their needs during the holidays?
Each program has unique event offerings. Our Black Birthing Health Initiative (BBHI) recently held a fair, where caregivers and families were able to come together, find resources, unwind with some food, and receive supplies helpful to them at this point in their lives. Case Managers meet an increased need at this time of year with support for families to access food, housing, employment, legal and other needs. The organization runs a Toy Giveaway for clients and their families with generous donations from community members, volunteers, and donors. This year, in addition to toys, we have diapers, wellness kits, science kits and more. We’re grateful to our supporters.
Are there specific strategies or practices that you recommend for families or caregivers to reduce stress during this time?
Use this time for reflection. What have I learned? What would I like to learn? All these questions should stem not from a desire to be perfect but from a mindset of growth and development.
For someone seeking help but unsure where to start, what resources or first steps would you suggest?
Start here at HCN! Look into our programmatic offerings and fill out the referral form. If you have any questions, ask.
What is your vision for supporting the community through the holiday season and into the new year?
My vision is to continue to be authentic. I do my best to answer people’s questions, and if I don’t know, I usually know someone who knows and we can figure out the answer together.
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