Mental Health Awareness:A Vital Part of Namibians’ Well-Being

Mental health is often overlooked, but it is just as important as physical health in ensuring a happy and productive life.

In Namibia, like in many other parts of the world, mental health issues are prevalent but still carry stigma.

Suicide rates are alarmingly increasing, highlighting the urgent need for mental health awareness and support systems.

Tackling emotional health in Namibia requires collective effort, including education, early intervention and improved access to psychological support.

Mental health refers to “a state of well-being in which an individual realises their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and is able to make a contribution to their community’’ (World Health Organisation, 2022).

Mental health is essential at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence to adulthood.

Despite the growing recognition of mental health, many people still face discrimination and silence surrounding their struggles.
In Namibia, this often results in individuals not seeking help when they need it.

Promoting mental
health awareness can:

1. Reduce stigma: Addressing mental health openly can normalise it and encourage those struggling to seek help without fear of judgement.
2. Increase access to care: Awareness helps inform the public about available mental health resources, clinics and counselling services.
3. Support emotional well-being: Educating communities about mental health helps people recognise signs of distress in themselves and others, leading to early intervention and better outcomes.

Common mental health problems include anxiety, depression and stress-related disorders, which affect thousands of people across Namibia.

Depression leads to persistent sadness, feeling tired and a loss of interest in daily activities.
These conditions can interfere with daily life, relationships and work.

Teaching mental health in schools can help with the recognition and management of feelings in younger children and future Namibian leaders.

Mental healthcare should be viewed the same as physical healthcare.

People should seek mental health check-ups just as they seek physical care. Simple habits like regular exercise, enough sleep, healthy eating and stress management would significantly improve mental health.

In conclusion, raising mental health awareness in Namibia could transform the way we approach mental well-being.

By breaking the silence, educating communities and providing support, we can create a society where mental health is treated with the same care and importance as physical health.

Together we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to live a happy, healthy life.

– Elizabeth Katenda is a nursing student at the University of Namibia.