Zambia: Mental Healthcare stakeholders believe that family support can help in the detection and management of mental health disorders. Members of the Mazabuka Mental Health Association have advised families and relatives to always look out for signs of psychological health disorders in people they live with.
The said member of the Mazabuka Mental Health Association has been identified as Joshua Sibanda. He is an important member of the organization working for the sensitization of people against mental health issues.
Joshua Sibanda explained the reason for his advice to the families and relatives. He believes people who consider suicide usually form some sort of a process in their lifestyle.
He clarified that according to him, the vice does not come to mind at an instant but develops over time.
Sibanda adds that individuals who contemplate suicide do it over and over if the first time fails. Accordingly, the families need to be observant of their loved ones which may protect them and save their lives.
He says individuals with mood swings such as stress and sudden quietness should be encouraged to seek counselling as soon as possible. This will help the people in addressing whatever mental challenges they might be facing.
Meanwhile, Mazabuka based Mental Health Advocate, Mutandalike Choonga also expressed his views on the front. He believes that stress-related issues are usually the most prominent spectrum of mental health illnesses.
The mental health advocate also provided a figure for the prominence of the symptom which stood at an approximation of 60%.
Choonga stated that it is very important to increase public sensitization on matters of mental health. He claimed that last week, over 50 local youths were engaged at a named Tuition Centre to discuss the subject matter.
The people of the country have been appreciating the mental health stakeholders of the country for their efforts to sensitize and educate the community about the importance of mental health.