Sorry, I’m Not Sorry for mental health matters
As the world grapples with the growing mental health crisis, widespread stigma, coupled with limited resources and support for mental health care, have left many Malawians suffering in silence.
However, a community calling itself Sorry, I’m Not Sorry quietly works to break the silence and discriminatory tendencies associated with mental health.
The group, founded by Josephy Daniel Sukali, seeks to create a safe space where people can open up about their struggles without fear or being judged.
“From lived experiences to volunteerism, our community has grown into a vibrant network of individuals passionate about promoting mental well-being,” he says.

Sorry, I’m Not Sorry offers a variety of mental health support, from venting sessions to emergency support, weekly check-ins, and public lectures.
“We are leaving no stone unturned in our quest to promote mental well-being,” says Sukali.
The group holds mental health retreats where people freely share and discuss their psychological burdens.
Last year, they held two retreats, one at Lake Malawi National Park in Mangochi and the other at Zomba Mental Hospital. During both retreats, the participants openly shared their experiences, connected with others and supported one another.
For many, the escape marks the beginning of their journey towards recovery.
“I was blown away by the sense of community and support that I experienced at the retreats,” says Abraham Bisayi, who attended both retreats. “For the first time in my life, I felt like I was not alone in my struggles.”
Bisayi says the retreats gave him the courage to open up about his mental health and seek help.
“I am forever grateful to Sorry, I’m Not Sorry’ for providing me with a safe space to heal and grow,” he says.
According to Sukali, the community wants to create a society where mental health is a priority and individuals feel empowered to speak out and seek help.
“We want to break the silence and stigma surrounding mental illness in Malawi,” he says. “We believe that mental health matters. Together, we can create a brighter future for mental health in the country.”
But the community’s footprint transcends a series of events.
Its support and guidance provide a lifeline for those who may be struggling to cope.
The community also raises awareness about mental health issues, including surging suicides that mostly affect men.
On social media and at public events, they work tirelessly to break the silence and lift the veil on mental issues.
Their inroads, especially among the youth, testify to the power of community and the impact that can be made when individuals come together to support a common cause.
Their programmes and services are designed to support mental health, which often pushes an affected individual to a friendless corner, depression and suicidal thoughts with no one to give them a hand or an ear.
They provide sessions where individuals safely vent their emotions, heartbreaks and frustrations.
The group’s emergency support services offer a lifeline for those in crisis. The weekly check-ins provide ongoing psychosocial support and guidance.
The public lectures and workshops raise mental health awareness and well-being.
Their online presence, with a website and social media platforms, provides a wealth of information and resources on mental health.
Sorry, I’m Not Sorry has changed the lives of many Malawians, giving them a safe space, listening ears and helping hands.
It encourages its clients to open up about their struggles and connect with others who understand their journey.
Their work has also helped to raise awareness about mental health issues in Malawi, breaking the silence and stigma surrounding mental conditions.
Ngina Mtonga, one of the advocates, says being part of the initiative has reminded her of the importance of speaking openly about mental health.
She states: “It’s not just about raising awareness, but also about encouraging people to seek help without fear or shame.
“Through my work, I’ve witnessed the power of honest conversations in breaking the stigma and fostering a more compassionatecommunity. This experience has deepened my commitment to advocating for mental health and empowering others to do the same.”