NGO in mental health awareness in Ntchisi

Malawi Girl Guides Association has advised people of Ntchisi District to seek help whenever they face problems to prevent mental health issues.

Speaking on Saturday during an awareness campaign on mental health, the organisation’s team leader Schola Kaira said mental health issues deserve attention as they affect a person’s thinking, emotions and behaviour.

She said they decided to raise awareness on mental health following the rise in suicide cases in the country.

Said Kaira: “According to the World Health Organisation, treatment of mental illnesses can reduce the risk of suicide.

“Mental health is not only affecting young people, but adults as well, that is why the session brought together people of different ages.”

Girl Guides member Abigail Kaonga, one of the girls who attended the session, said she learned how to find solutions to problems she may face.

She said: “I have learned that I should not look down upon myself, but believe in myself.

“I have also learnt about various institutions such as Social Welfare Department and the role they play in providing counselling services.”

Ntchisi Secondary School student Hendrina Lazarus said if mental health issues cannot be handled properly, they can affect students academically and emotionally. The session was held under the YESS Girls Movement, an international exchange programme for young women aged between 18 and 25 with funding from the Norwegian Agency for Exchange Cooperation.