Mental Health

What is mental health?

Mental health refers to your emotional and psychological well-being. When your mental health is strong, you can handle daily stress, make good decisions, and maintain relationships. But when your mental health suffers, it can affect every part of your life, from work to family to personal happiness.

Many African societies do not talk openly about mental health. Some believe mental illness is caused by witchcraft, bad luck, or punishment for wrongdoing. However, mental illness is a medical condition, just like malaria or diabetes, and it needs proper treatment.

Your mental health can be influenced by:

  • Life events: Losing a loved one, financial struggles, or violence.
  • Genetics: If mental illness runs in your family, you may have a higher chance of developing one.
  • Environment: Stressful surroundings, poor living conditions, and lack of social support can affect mental health.
  • Daily habits: Poor diet, lack of sleep, or drug abuse can worsen mental health.

How common are mental health problems in Africa?

Mental health issues are more common than many people think. In Africa:

  • 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health disorder in their lifetime.
  • Depression affects more than 100 million Africans.
  • Suicide rates are high, with over 70% of global suicides occurring in low- and middle-income countries, including many in Africa.
  • Only about 10% of people with mental disorders in Africa receive professional treatment.

Are all mental illnesses the same?

No, mental illnesses are different. Some are mild, while others are severe and need urgent medical attention. Below are some common mental disorders:

  • Schizophrenia (severe mental disorder): Often misunderstood as “madness,” this condition affects how a person understands reality. Someone with schizophrenia may hear voices, see things that are not there, or believe things that are not true. Without treatment, they may struggle to live normally and may even become a danger to themselves or others.
  • Bipolar disorder (extreme mood swings):  A person with bipolar disorder experiences extreme highs (manic episodes) and deep lows (depressive episodes). These mood swings are more intense than the normal ups and downs of daily life. The person may suddenly become very energetic, make risky decisions, and then later feel extremely sad and hopeless.
  • Depression (serious and long-lasting sadness): Major depressive disorder (MDD), also called clinical depression, is more than just feeling sad. A person with depression may feel hopeless, lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, and even think about suicide. If sadness lasts more than two weeks and affects daily life, it may be depression.
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) (uncontrollable repetitive thoughts and actions): A person with OCD has constant unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and feels the need to perform certain behaviors (compulsions) repeatedly. For example, they may wash their hands many times because they fear germs, or repeatedly check locks due to an excessive fear of insecurity.
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (trauma after a shocking event): This condition happens after a person experiences or witnesses a very disturbing event, such as war, violence, or an accident. It can cause nightmares, flashbacks, and extreme fear.

How can one cope with mental illness?

Ignoring mental health problems will not make them go away. In fact, they often get worse. Here are some important steps to take:

  • Seek help early: If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, visit a psychologist (mental health expert) or psychiatrist (a doctor who treats mental illness). Talking to a professional is not a sign of weakness, but a step toward healing.
  • Avoid drugs and alcohol: Stimulants like excessive alcohol, marijuana (“wee”), and cocaine can worsen mental health conditions.
  • Surround yourself with supportive people: Talking to trusted friends or family members can help ease stress.
  • Stay active and eat well: Regular exercise, healthy food, and enough sleep improve mental health.

Treatment for mental illness?

Mental health treatment is different for each person, depending on the condition and severity. Treatment options include:

  • Psychotherapy (talking therapy): Speaking with a trained professional to understand and manage thoughts and emotions.
  • Medications: Some conditions require medication to help balance chemicals in the brain.
  • Lifestyle changes: Good nutrition, regular exercise, and enough sleep can improve mental health.
  • Hospital treatment: For severe cases, a person may need to stay in a hospital for close monitoring and intensive treatment.

Final word: mental health matters!

Mental health is just as important as physical health. In Africa, too many people suffer in silence because of stigma and fear. But mental illness is not a curse or a sign of weakness, it is a medical condition that can be treated.

Take action today:

Spread awareness so that more people understand that mental health matters.

If you are struggling, seek help.

If you know someone suffering, support them.