Here2Talk Mental Health Awareness Campaign Inspires Open Dialogue

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a detrimental impact on the mental well-being of individuals in Eswatini. In response, an initiative was undertaken to raise awareness about mental health and combat the stigma surrounding mental health issues. The campaign encompasses a diverse array of activities tailored to various demographics, with the Open Up Challenge specifically geared towards engaging the youth. Its objective is to inspire young people to openly discuss their mental health challenges and seek assistance. By showcasing videos of influential Swazi youth and staff members candidly sharing their personal experiences with mental health issues, the campaign serves as a powerful testament that mental health concerns transcend all segments of society.

 Here2Talk campaign funded by the UK High Commission in Mbabane 

The financial assistance provided by the UK High Commission enabled the organization to mitigate the stigma and dispel the misconceptions surrounding mental illness, while simultaneously bolstering mental health and well-being support for the EmaSwati populace. This was achieved through the deployment of Psychological First Aid community counselors in rural areas, who facilitated mental health awareness initiatives and delivered essential services. These counselors were tasked with providing initial psychosocial support to individuals affected by crisis situations, thereby reducing the likelihood of subsequent mental health issues and complex trauma. Furthermore, their efforts facilitated the early detection of mental health disruptions, enabling timely interventions.

MENTAL HEALTH PODCAST

The first episode of our podcast focused on the impact that Gender Based Violence(GBV) has on our mental health. Our  trauma counselor, joined by two guests in the discussion, looked at the many forms of GBV and it's consequences in relation to mental health.