To this end, mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, are prevalent in The Gambia, particularly among the youths, yet access to care is severely limited.
And most of the people with this disease continue to face numerous challenges in society. The disease conditions are the single largest cause of disabilities in the world and that it is such that it is an international health concern that is gaining considerable attention.
Faced with many challenges, including intractable poverty, infectious diseases, maternal and child mortality, as well as conflict, African political leaders and international development agencies frequently overlook the importance of mental health.
It is in the news that the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) Banjul Office on Thursday handed over a new rehabilitated unit to Tanka Tanka Psychiatric Ward centre officials in Salaji. The project includes the replacement of the roof and ceiling; painting of internal and external walls; creating vegetable gardening; football field for sports activities- as well as providing tools and equipment for the hobby areas. This will not only help create live skills for the patients but would also enable them to relax and recover.
Around the globe, people living with mental illness (particularly severe mental illness) frequently face stigma and are excluded from society. However, people with this disease condition could be rehabilitated, once society changes its approach towards them and shows them much care and love.
Though, the condition of some will take them time to receiver in view of the fact that their condition is such that they need special attention to regain their sense.
Since the early 2000s, a series of randomised controlled trials in African countries have provided compelling evidence that mental health interventions are highly effective. These include pharmacological and psychological interventions. Many of these have used non-specialist health providers in local communities, reducing the cost of care.
Thus, we commend TIKA for their foresight and love for humanity. This is what humanity calls for. Their intervention would only impact on the lives of the patients, but would also help them as they undergo rehabilitations.
Rehabilitation is key in mental health. It's high time the government invests in this sector and helps patients in their integration efforts.
We all have a role to play in making a difference in society. And to this end, through greater collaboration and joint efforts, we can better the condition of those affected by mental illness in The Gambia. Let’s show love and care for them.