Rédaction Africa Links 24 with babucarr balajo
Published on 2024-03-08 09:44:25
Mental illness is a topic often considered taboo in The Gambia, but it is crucial that we confront this reality. Ignoring mental illness does not make it disappear. It is important to understand that suffering from mental illness does not equate to being “crazy.” The use of derogatory terms like “crazy” only perpetuates stigma and misunderstanding surrounding mental health issues.
While there are individuals with severe mental illnesses who may experience hallucinations and paranoia, it is essential to recognize that mental illness comes in various forms, with depression being one of the most common. Depression is a treatable condition, but lack of resources and awareness often prevent individuals from seeking help.
Youth are often idealized as carefree individuals with their whole future ahead of them. However, the teenage years can be incredibly stressful, marked by significant changes in one’s body, thoughts, and emotions. Factors such as family changes, friendship issues, school problems, and other losses can exacerbate feelings of stress and confusion. For some teens, suicide may seem like a way out of overwhelming circumstances.
Recently, a tragic incident involving a 13-year-old school girl named I Jallow, who took her own life, shed light on the pressing issue of teen suicide. The complexities of adolescent development combined with external stressors can create a breeding ground for mental health crises. It is crucial to recognize the warning signs associated with depression and suicide, such as changes in behavior, withdrawal from activities, and thoughts of death.
In societies where mental health discussions are still shunned, it is challenging for individuals to seek help or speak openly about their struggles. The Gambia, like many other countries, faces a lack of mental health resources and professionals. Without adequate support systems in place, individuals may feel isolated and unable to address their mental health issues.
Educating the community about mental health and erasing the stigma associated with it is essential. By promoting open conversations and demanding better mental health services from policymakers, we can create a more supportive environment for those struggling with mental illness. Recognizing the signs of depression and suicide, and encouraging individuals to seek help, can save lives and prevent future tragedies.
It is crucial to shift the narrative from treating mental illness as a taboo topic to promoting mental health awareness and resilience. By providing individuals with the tools and resources they need to address their mental health concerns, we can begin to break the cycle of silence and stigma surrounding mental illness in The Gambia and beyond.
Read the original article on The Standard
