Location: Morogoro, TanzaniaMental health illness remains a major public health challenge in Tanzania and across the world, affecting individuals, families, and community wellbeing.
To respond to this challenge, Health Outreach Tanzania (HOTA) participated in the Jukwaa la Jamii event held in Morogoro, which brought together over twenty-three local NGOs to discuss key community development issues.
During this event, HOTA led a mental health awareness session that engaged more than one hundred residents and NGO representatives, with the goal of improving understanding of mental health and encouraging community-based support and treatment-seeking behavior.
The overall goal of the activity was to create awareness within the community about mental health illnesses and promote access to psychological support and health services. Specifically, the session aimed to increase knowledge of the burden and causes of mental health issues, educate participants on the signs and symptoms, promote awareness of treatment options, and highlight the importance of physical activity, rest, a balanced diet, and counseling in maintaining psychological wellbeing.
The session was implemented through two main approaches. The first approach involved a structured health talk facilitated by a mental health educator who provided an overview of mental health conditions, their causes, and available treatment options.
The talk was interactive, allowing participants to share their experiences and challenges related to mental health within their communities. The second approach was a discussion and question-and-answer session, which enabled participants to seek clarification on misconceptions about mental health.
The open dialogue created a supportive environment, encouraging participants to reflect on their perceptions and commit to becoming advocates for mental health awareness in their respective communities.As a result of this activity, awareness and understanding of mental health issues among participants increased significantly. A total of 130 individuals, including 100 Morogoro residents and representatives from 23 local NGOs, participated in the session. Some participants who disclosed personal mental health challenges were referred to nearby health facilities and psychologists for further support. Moreover, many participants expressed their commitment to continue raising awareness on mental health and to act as ambassadors for positive mental health practices within their organizations and communities.
The session demonstrated that with open dialogue, accurate information, and professional guidance, communities can begin to overcome stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental illness. However, the discussions also revealed that myths and lack of information about mental health remain widespread, underscoring the need for continued education and awareness campaigns.
In conclusion, the mental health awareness session in Morogoro successfully strengthened community understanding, inspired advocacy, and built linkages between individuals in need and professional mental health services.
HOTA extends its appreciation to the Morogoro Paralegal Organization for organizing Jukwaa la Jamii and for providing a vital platform to discuss such critical issues.
The success of this initiative highlights the importance of scaling up similar interventions across the country to promote psychological wellbeing and foster healthier, more resilient communities.
