Namcol tackles mental health
Don't be afraid to seek help
Many people, including teens, struggle with undetected mental illnesses that go untreated due to a lack of education and access to mental health institutions.
This month, Namcol undertook an inaugural walk to commemorate the Day of the African Child and in honour of the organisation's soon-to-retire CEO, Dr Heroldt Murangi.
This year's theme was 'Mental Wellness for Academic Excellence'.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the suicide rate in Namibia is 9.7 per 100,000 people.
This is the fourth highest rate behind neighbouring South Africa (23.5), Botswana (16.10), and Zimbabwe (14.1).
"Mental health is intrinsic and essential to the lives of all people. It has an impact on how we think, feel, and behave. It underlies our ability to make decisions, form relationships, and affect the world we live in. Mental health is a fundamental human right as well. It is also critical for personal, community, and socioeconomic growth. It is always a part of us, even when we aren't aware of it," the WHO has stated.
Brave to tackle a taboo
Petrus Matheus, a mental health activist, acknowledged his own personal mental health struggles at the event.
"I was diagnosed with schizophrenia two years ago, and it was extremely difficult for me to understand and adjust to my new normal."
He said many teens have undetected mental illnesses that go untreated due to a lack of education and access to mental health institutions. "Many teens still do not know where to find these services and facilities to get the help they require."
Those addressing the audience at the occasion urged young people to get help and advice from mental health professionals.
Connie Samaria, the regional administrator at Namcol, praised Matheus for his bravery and commitment to advocating for mental health.
Samaria said this bravery is rare, given that society does not encourage men to express themselves and many men are hesitant to open up about their struggles, particularly in the black community.
This year's theme was 'Mental Wellness for Academic Excellence'.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the suicide rate in Namibia is 9.7 per 100,000 people.
This is the fourth highest rate behind neighbouring South Africa (23.5), Botswana (16.10), and Zimbabwe (14.1).
"Mental health is intrinsic and essential to the lives of all people. It has an impact on how we think, feel, and behave. It underlies our ability to make decisions, form relationships, and affect the world we live in. Mental health is a fundamental human right as well. It is also critical for personal, community, and socioeconomic growth. It is always a part of us, even when we aren't aware of it," the WHO has stated.
Brave to tackle a taboo
Petrus Matheus, a mental health activist, acknowledged his own personal mental health struggles at the event.
"I was diagnosed with schizophrenia two years ago, and it was extremely difficult for me to understand and adjust to my new normal."
He said many teens have undetected mental illnesses that go untreated due to a lack of education and access to mental health institutions. "Many teens still do not know where to find these services and facilities to get the help they require."
Those addressing the audience at the occasion urged young people to get help and advice from mental health professionals.
Connie Samaria, the regional administrator at Namcol, praised Matheus for his bravery and commitment to advocating for mental health.
Samaria said this bravery is rare, given that society does not encourage men to express themselves and many men are hesitant to open up about their struggles, particularly in the black community.
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Namibian Sun
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