By Hope Chimwala
Blantyre, December 11, Mana: A Non-Governmental Organization called ‘Sorry I’m Not Sorry: We Are All Sick’ has for the first time organized a two-day mental health retreat that will be held in Zomba at Gymkhana hall from 20 to 21 December.
In an interview with Malawi News Agency on Wednesday, Founder and chairperson for Sorry, I’m Not Sorry: We Are All Sick, Joseph Daniel Sukali said the retreat aims to bring together all mental health advocates and youths from across the country and equip them with skills for enhancing mental health advocacy in their communities.
“This retreat will provide a safe and engaging space for all the participants to reflect, learn, and strategize on how to address mental health challenges effectively,” he said.
Sukali added that the retreat will provide the advocates with practical skills, knowledge, and emotional resilience to address mental health issues in order to minimize suicidal cases.
“Through collaboration, and creation of a network of support, we hope to strengthen the fight against stigma, promote awareness about mental health challenges and reduce cases of mental distress and suicide cases,” he said.
In a separate interview with a psychotherapist and mental health advocate, Catherine Thangalimodzi, said that the initiative is a good step as it demonstrates commitment to addressing the urgent need for mental health support in Malawi.
“By bringing together all mental health advocates from across the country and providing tools and resources, the retreat empowers participants to take action in their communities and create a more compassionate and understanding society through organizing awareness campaigns, providing peer support, and advocating for better mental health services,” she explained.
Thangalimodzi also highlighted that by empowering participants to combat stigma, the initiative is directly challenging the negative attitudes and misconception surrounding mental health.
They will also visit Zomba Mental Health Hospital to donate various items such as clothes, soap, and food worth MK300, 000.
The retreat has been organized with support from sponsors and partners such as Emmanuel Car rentals, Mango Lodge, Monnel Foundation, Ruyare Mental health organization, Empower Mind Counselling and Therapy, and Aerobics Arena and fitness Gym. Another retreat will be done next year in Lilongwe.
