11 May 2022

The rise in number of cases associated with depression, suicide, drugs and alcohol abuse,  during  COVID-19, has proven that the country needs invest in mental health education and awareness campaigns. 

 This was highlighted by councillor for Ntloedibe Ward in Molepolole, Mr Jeffery Sibisibi after hosting a sponsored walk for mental health awareness at Scottish Livingstone Hospital recently.

Mr Sibisibi said Batswana should be aware that mental health did not discriminate as it could affect everyone hence education was important.

He said most people assumed that Sbrana Mental Hospital was only for those who were already mentally ill or unstable, a notion which  he said was false.

 “The hospital is not just for those who are mentally ill but it is also for those who need therapy and counseling from depression, trauma and emotional pain,” he said.

Speaking also at the same event, a clinical psychologist from Scottish Livingstone Hospital, Mr Mohammed Sadeque said young people failed to utilize counseling and mental programmes in their schools, a situation which caused concern.

 “I urge you to utilise these programmes to help you deal with your emotions and problems,” he stated.

Also in an interview with BOPA, Mr Abednigo Mafoko, the manager of Scottish Livingstone Hospital praised the organisers of the sponsored walk for their efforts in creating awareness on mental health.

He said the efforts indicated that dealing with health issues was not just the hospital and government’s responsibility but it was also for the community’s as well. Ends