Through my work as a mental health education volunteer in a marginalised community, I’ve had the privilege of speaking with one of its residents. Our conversation revealed the profound impact of poverty, affecting not only children’s physical needs but also their emotional and psychological well-being. It was deeply moving to witness firsthand how a family of five endures life in a cramped, isolating space, with little to no social support network. These challenges create invisible barriers that limit their potential, emphasising the crucial role of mental health education in breaking the cycle of poverty and despair.