Africans Turning a New Leaf on Mental Health

May was mental health awareness month around the world. African perspectives on mental health issues have come a long way. Back in the day mental health in most or almost all African countries seemed to be non-existent and seen as a weakness. Growing up in Cameroon and even to date, when we saw what we called “mad people” on the streets we always assumed the person might have been cursed by some witchcraft or voodoo.

Most Africans did not believe in depression and they viewed mental health as a “white man’s thing”. However, 2020 to 2021 seems to be a year of lots of changes, growth, and acknowledgments. Most Africans are now aware of the importance of mental health and are now promoting various self-care practices and approach for others to implement.

Various African countries have gone as far as holding sensitization activities and mass campaigns on mental health in their communities. Our African Government and legislators are now investing in developing and implementing mental health infrastructures and services. My greatest wish and hope is that those who do decide to seek any form of mental health services should not be stigmatized.