Trust Khosa
YESTERDAY, October 10, was Mental Health Day.
This year’s commemorations were held under the theme “Mental health is a universal human right”.
H-Metro spoke to several celebrities, influencers and socialites who shared their thoughts on this day.
COMIC PASTOR
“I think in Zimbabwe we don’t take mental health seriously.
“When one opens up about what is eating them, we are quick to judge and dismiss them.
“In other countries, mental health is taken seriously. There is a need for a change of mindset to ensure that we address the issue.”
ALEXIO KAWARA
“Mental health is crucial in that it determines how we function as human beings since our minds are the central processors of everything we do or say.
“The best solution is to conscientise people about the importance of mental health and outline signs and symptoms of mental ill-health as well as provide solutions.”
MONO MUKUNDU
“One aspect of life’s reality that needs careful consideration is mental health. “But, regrettably, the majority of people in African nations either choose to ignore it or conceal it behind superstitious beliefs.
“The majority of mental health patients living on the streets might be living at home if mental health issues were handled seriously.
“In Africa, ignorance is a lucrative industry.
“As a result, some prophets and traditional healers profit from people’s ignorance.
“A mental patient just requires psychiatric assistance.”
DIANA SAMKANGE
“We are coming from an era where our elders were not prioritising mental health.
“There is a transformation, which is happening. We need to acknowledge it. The are many things that can lead to depression, suicide and anti-social behaviour.
“We need people to have counselling. Over the years, it was not taken seriously.”