Youth Vibe Holds Mental Health Talks On World Mental Health Day

Youth Vibe, a Sierra Leonean NGO, organized mental health talks in Freetown from October 8th to 10th to mark World Mental Health Day 2024. The talks were part of their “Release, Play, and Heal” campaign which raised awareness about mental health issues amongst the youth in Sierra Leone.

The talks were held at the Prince of Wales Secondary School, the Freetown Secondary School for Girls, and with others aged between 15-30. 

The Youth Vibe team visited these schools and gathered real time data on the mental health challenges young people face daily. Therefore, allowing  organizations like Youth Vibe gain crucial insights into the mental health issues affecting Sierra Leone’s youth. 

Youth Vibe’s Release, Play, and Heal Campaign

Prince of Wales Secondary School Pupils in assembly

As the world observes mental health day, Youth Vibe took to the streets of Freetown with their “Release, Play, and Heal Campaign.” 

This approach particularly targeted school-going pupils. Members of the organization engaged students in conversations to understand their mental health issues. 

“The team visited the Prince Of Wales Secondary School and the Freetown Secondary School for Girls. This real-time data collection helps us understand the mental health challenges young people face daily, allowing us to tailor support accordingly”, said Fatmata A.Sankoh, founder and Ceo of Youth Vibe.

Youth Vibe’s success in mental health advocacy stems from its collaborative approach, however The organization partners with schools, health professionals, and other community stakeholders to amplify its impact. 

These partnerships ensure that young people can access mental health services often without financial or geographical hindrances. 

“Partnering with local schools has been instrumental in reaching a broader audience. We’ve hosted workshops on school campuses, where students can learn about mental health, understand the importance of self-care, and identify available resources,” said Abdul Yollah, who oversees Youth Vibe’s mental health initiatives.

Efforts in Addressing Mental Health In Sierra Leone

Member of youth vibe communicating with pupil

In Sierra Leone, mental health services are still scarce, organizations likeYouth Vibe are bridging  the gap by empowering young people to become mental health advocates .

Youth Vibe is a nonprofit youth-led organization engaging individuals aged 15 to 30 through advocacy, digital skills training, and community empowerment. 

Founded by Fatmata A. Sankoh in 2024 with the aim to transform youngsters in Sierra Leone by addressing mental health climate change, sexual and reproductive health, and gender-based violence. they help shape future changemakers.

“We believe that young people hold the power to influence their communities positively. By providing them with the tools and platforms they need, we are not only empowering individuals but also creating a ripple effect that can benefit society as a whole,” said Sankoh.

With a population of over 8 million, Sierra Leone has 2 psychiatrists, 2 clinical psychologists, and 19 mental health nurses. This therefore results in a 98% treatment gap for  severe mental illness.

Youth Vibe is addressing the gap through various mental health initiatives. The organization raises awareness equipping youth with digital tools, leadership skills, and data-driven insights.

“We’ve seen an alarming rise in mental health challenges among young people, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic,” Sankoh continued. 

“Through our programs, we aim to create safe spaces where youth can openly discuss their mental health struggles and access the help they need without fear of judgment.”

Other Mental Health Organizations in Sierra Leone

While Youth Vibe has made significant strides, other organizations also work tirelessly to combat mental illness and its effects. 

The Mental Health Coalition Sierra Leone, advocates for the rights and dignity of all those affected by mental health issues. 

Abdulrahman Sesay, Project Coordinator of Mental Health Coalition emphasized the importance of mental health advocacy in Sierra Leone.

“As a country we have gone through a lot when it comes to disaster, considering the eleven years war, ebola, corona and mudslide we have experienced shows that there is still more to be done when it comes to combating issues related to mental health in Sierra Leone”, said Sesay.

He explained that people often confuse “mental health” with the words “mental illness” highlighting the need for more awareness about their differences.

“Looking at the importance of advocacy in combating mental health, it’s of essence we prioritize advocacy. Even the World Mental Health Day is celebrated in order to raise awareness and advocate for improved access to mental health. Educating the masses to understand everything related to mental health is one way of solving the problem’’, Sesay said.

Women also face mental health challenges due to societal expectations. Nyali is creating a safe space for women, collaborating with communities and organizations to provide mental, psychological, and welfare support.

On Nyali’s Facebook page, a post emphasized the need to prioritize mental health and empower women as leaders of positive change.

“Sierra Leone’s prosperity hinges on the full potential of its young women. By breaking down systematic obstacles, prioritizing mental health, and cultivating a supportive ecosystem, we can empower them to become leaders, innovators, and catalysts for positive change, propelling our nation towards a brighter future”. 

What is World Mental Health Day

Celebrated every year on the 10th October. World Mental Health Day was first celebrated in 1992 at the initiative of World Federation For Mental Health. 

World Mental Health Day, aims to raise awareness and encouraged support for those experiencing mental health issues.

This year’s theme “Mental Health at Work”, emphasized the significance of mental health in the work space. Moreover, safe and healthy working environment is a protective guarantee for mental health.

As Sierra Leone joins the global conversation on mental health, organizations like Youth Vibe, Mental Health Coalition and Nyali offer hope.

By empowering youths to take charge of their mental well-being, and shaping a future where young people are thriving.