Shortage of mental health facilities haunts govt

Health Minister Dr Kalumbi Shangula has revealed that there is an acute shortage of mental health facilities in the country, placing thousands of people who need care for common mental disorders in limbo.Shangula said at the country’s biggest mental health facility, Windhoek Central Hospital, there are only 220 beds for psychiatric patients, while ward 16 at Oshakati Intermediary Hospital only has capacity for 60.The facilities have to cater to all mental health-related needs, such as general psychiatry for inpatients and outpatients, outreach services, and forensic psychiatry services.The minister revealed this when he unveiled the inaugural Mental Health Board for Oshakati Intermediate Hospital.Record numbersShangula underscored the magnitude of the country&#039;s mental health challenges and the pressing demand for upgraded infrastructure.Poor mental health has been associated with Namibia&#039;s increasing suicide rate, which, according to the World Health Organisation, hovers around 9.7 per 100 000 population. This is the fourth highest compared to neighbouring South Africa (23.5), Botswana (16.10) and Zimbabwe (14.1). Official statistics from the health ministry indicate that between January 2020 and June 2021, Namibia reported 745 suicides, while 1 172 people attempted or thought of taking their own lives.More than 70% of the suicide cases reported to the health ministry during the reporting period were men.Professional interest on the riseA notable silver lining, as pointed out by Shangula, is the increased interest among medical professionals to specialise in mental health."In recent years, we have observed a growing number of doctors, nurses, social workers and other professionals pursuing training in various mental health disciplines," he said.However, the ever-growing demand spotlights the inadequacy of existing mental health facilities."Currently, the largest mental health facility in the country is located at Windhoek Central Hospital," the minister said. He gave assurances of ongoing government efforts to improve mental health care."We are committed to enhancing mental health services through training, resource allocation and improved infrastructure."Difficult pastShangula emphasised the complex nature of contributing factors."The history of our country, punctuated by trauma, conflict, oppression and deprivation, cannot be disregarded. It is part and parcel of what now manifests itself in some of the incidents that we see today displayed by persons with symptoms of mental health."He further acknowledged the role of substance abuse, particularly alcohol and drugs, in exacerbating the problem.

Shortage of mental health facilities haunts govt

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

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Shortage of mental health facilities haunts govt

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

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