What was the Harare Edition all about?

Over a two-day period, between 26 and 27 August 2019, African Institute for Ending Bullying Depression and Suicide (AFRIBS) in collaboration with Jibilika Trust embarked on a less frequently traveled route of conducting a Mental Health Facilitator’s Training in Harare.

The training sought to raise awareness of mental health and how much it is slowly leading to the decay in society through an escalation in cases such as depression, schizophrenia, anxiety and bipolar disorders.

This is what *Pete had to say after undergoing the Mental Health Training:

“l feel very fortunate to have attended the two day training. It was very informative. l may have been aware of mental health literature but the training gave me a practical feel from people who have been on the ground.”

Lessons Learnt

“l now have knowledge on the buddie system, the positives and challenges that come with facilitating support group meetings. l attained knowledge on mental health first aid, how to notice triggers, how to check up on members and identify ‘tell-tell’ signs when someone in the group might be in need of more attention and help.”

What is it that Pete will do differently after the training?

“My idea has always been to work closely with young people although I could not figure out how best to approach the matter. l now know l have to select an issue or two that l can focus on as there are too many factors that cause mental related problems among the youths.”

How can we best deal with Mental Health?

“l think mental health requires a holistic approach by offering assistance to an individual who is struggling with a mental disorder. Identify environmental triggers at an early stage so as to establish ways of dealing with them. And lastly, raise awareness on mental health within society so that families and the community can understand and act as anchors to affected individuals.”

#Fight Stigma #Mental Health