Today, on World Mental Health Day, we are reminded of the importance of addressing mental health and the ongoing global efforts to bring attention to this critical issue. In Sierra Leone, where the conversation around mental health is still in its infancy, this day serves as a significant moment to reflect on the strides being made and the challenges that lie ahead. Mental health issues are often shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding, but with growing awareness, there is hope for more comprehensive care and support for those in need.
Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet in many countries, including Sierra Leone, it has not received the attention it deserves. The legacy of civil war, followed by the Ebola epidemic, COVID-19 pandemic, and ongoing socio-economic struggles, has left a profound psychological impact on the population. Many suffer from trauma, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues, but access to mental health services remains limited, particularly in rural areas where resources are scarce.
On this World Mental Health Day, we must not only highlight the work being done but also amplify the voices calling for better mental health care and increased resources. The theme for this year is “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right.”This emphasizes that mental well-being is fundamental to overall health, and every person, regardless of their background, has the right to access mental health care. This is especially relevant in Sierra Leone, where the mental health sector is underfunded and understaffed, with only a handful of professionals to cater to a population of over 8 million people.
One of the biggest hurdles to improving mental health in Sierra Leone is the stigma associated with mental illness. Many people who suffer from mental health conditions are misunderstood, marginalized, or even feared. Mental health problems are often seen as a sign of weakness or spiritual affliction, which discourages individuals from seeking help. This stigma is not unique to Sierra Leone but is common in many parts of the world, where mental health awareness is still lacking.
Raising awareness and educating the public is essential to breaking down these barriers. Mental health should be discussed openly in schools, workplaces, and communities to normalize conversations about psychological well-being. When we educate people about mental health, we empower them to recognize signs of distress in themselves and others and to seek help without fear of judgment. Public awareness campaigns, led by both government and non-governmental organizations, can play a pivotal role in challenging misconceptions and encouraging people to seek care.
While there has been progress globally, there is still much work to be done in making mental health care accessible to all. In Sierra Leone, the infrastructure for mental health services is severely lacking. There are only a few psychiatric nurses and mental health specialists, most of whom are located in urban areas like Freetown. For those living in rural communities, access to even basic mental health care can be an enormous challenge.
Moreover, the cost of treatment and the lack of mental health facilities further compound the issue. Many people do not have the financial means to access private care, and the public health system is often stretched to its limits. Investments in training more mental health professionals, establishing community-based care programs, and integrating mental health services into the primary health care system are vital steps toward improving access.
The YALI Network recognizes that mental health is a key component of overall wellness and well-being. As part of its ongoing commitment to leadership and development in Africa, the YALI Network is launching a YALICares campaign later this year, which will focus on mental health and wellness. This campaign aims to provide resources and spark conversations about how we can better support individuals and communities in managing their mental health.
Mental health is not a conversation for just one day it requires continuous dialogue, action, and education. The YALI Network is dedicated to extending this conversation beyond World Mental Health Day by creating platforms for learning and engagement. By working together and sharing knowledge, we can help make mental health solutions more accessible and ensure that no one is left behind.
As we observe World Mental Health Day in Sierra Leone, we must think critically about what needs to be done to make mental health care more inclusive and accessible. First, we must advocate for policies that prioritize mental health within the national health agenda. The government and international partners must invest in the mental health sector, from infrastructure to human resources.
Second, community-based mental health care should be developed and promoted. Mental health care cannot solely be hospital-based it must be integrated into communities so that people can access support where they live. This approach will help reduce stigma and make care more affordable and accessible.
Finally, education and awareness remain the bedrock of changing attitudes toward mental health. We must continue to talk openly about mental health and encourage people to seek help when they need it. Schools, community centers, and workplaces should all be involved in promoting mental well-being.