Breaking the Silence: Mental Health Awareness and Support for Malawian Children
By Michael Martin//MALAWI
Malawi, a country nestled in the heart of southeastern Africa, is home to over 18 million people, with approximately 50% of the population consisting of children under the age of 18. Despite the country’s progress in improving healthcare and education, mental health issues among children remain a pressing concern.
Speaking in an interview with Monitor Security, Annie Kenya, Communications Officer for Umunthu Plus Humanity, the most common mental health issues affecting children in Malawi include depression, anxiety, and disruptive behavior.
She said these issues are often exacerbated by stigma, lack of care and support, and the challenges of growing up with HIV/AIDS.
“Our organizations working with children in Malawi face numerous challenges in supporting their mental health,” she said.
Kenya highlighted the lack of funding, relapse of situations perpetuated by guardians, and inconsistent support as major obstacles.
“Despite these challenges, her organization employs various strategies to promote children’s mental health, including counseling sessions, food support, and play therapy.
“The promotion of children’s rights is intricately linked to their mental health and well-being,” added PRO.
Kenya emphasized that creating an environment where children feel a sense of belonging and connection with those around them is crucial for their mental health.
She said their organization uses various strategies to promote children’s rights, including campaigning through social media platforms and conducting monitoring visits to children in need.
She said: “Involving children in decision-making processes that affect their mental health and well-being is essential.
“Our organization takes into account lessons learned during monitoring visits to ensure that children’s voices are heard and their needs are addressed.
As we strive to break the silence surrounding mental health issues affecting children in Malawi, it is essential that we amplify their voices and involve them in decision-making processes that affect their well-being.
By promoting children’s rights, providing support and care, and addressing the challenges that perpetuate mental health issues, we can work towards creating a brighter, healthier future for Malawian children.
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