I choose life

I choose life

Suicide has become a societal problem, and it’s a regular feature in Eswatini's local news. Approximately 90% of suicides worldwide are due to untreated mental disorders. While lack of reporting mechanisms make it difficult to pinpoint the suicide rate in Eswatini, anecdotal evidence and informal sources suggest it is very high. Key informants working in public health in Eswatini report that mental disorders are highly stigmatized, and Eswatini commonly avoid treatment for mental disorders until the problem has escalated out of control. According to the World Health Organization, mental disorders are the single most common cause of disability in young people. Furthermore, 70% of mental disorders onset prior to the age of 25, making the adolescent years a critical window in which mental health can be promoted, and mental health problems can be addressed. Little is currently being done about mental health in Eswatini; IMERSE (International Mental Health Resource Services) is currently the only NGO in Eswatini focusing on mental health. It aims at building the capacity of non-mental health specialists to: 1) promote mental health in their communities; 2) identify and provide front-line care to individuals developing or experiencing a mental health crisis; and 3) support and empower individuals living with mental health problems.

Project site

Mbabane, Hhohho District (Map)

Beneficiaries

10 Schools are approached by the project, 20 teachers, 10 members of the school committees and a non limited number of students are sensitized, taught and trained about mental health issues.
Women: 460 (direct), 80 (indirect)
Men: 300 (direct), 70 (indirect)
Children under age 16: 270 (direct), 95 (indirect)

Project costs and assistance by sahee

The entire project costs are CHF 57’000.–, whereas sahee takes over CHF 52’500.–.

sahee stays in regular contact with the project leaders, monitors the activities and visits the project on site.

Duration of assistance

1st of April 2016 to 31st of March 2019

Local counterpart

International Mental Health Resource Services (IMERSE)