Kawambwa District Clinical Psychiatry Officer, Josiah Kasonde has expressed concern over the rising number of mental health conditions in the district.

ZANIS reports that Mr Kasonde stated that mental illnesses are a significant public health challenge requiring serious attention in the district.

He noted that many patients delay getting professional help due to misconceptions and myths surrounding mental health conditions, as they mostly blame it on witchcraft and usually seek help from traditional healers.

“Mental illness is real and it can be treated, but many people still believe it is caused by witchcraft or curses. This thinking is dangerous and prevents people from getting proper medical help,” Mr Kasonde said.

Mr Kasonde said Kawambwa District Hospital had seen a surge in cases of alcohol and substance abuse, especially among young people and adults, which was one of the main causes of mental health ailments.

He added that health centres in the district were working to enhance counseling services and early detection but community support was needed to address the problem effectively.

Mr Kasonde urged residents to go to the hospital to seek help early and support family members showing signs of emotional or psychological distress.

And churches in Kawambwa have stepped in to help raise awareness on mental health by openly discussing the condition during sermons, youth meetings and counseling sessions.

Pentecostal Assemblies of God Bishop, Musa Chanda said most of his congregants complained of stress, depression and hopelessness, driven by unemployment, family problems and substance abuse among others.

He said churches had a role to encourage people to speak out and seek medical help without shame.

“We are telling our members that mental illness is not a sin. Prayer is important, but medical help and counseling are also necessary,” Bishop Chanda said.

He called for strong collaboration between the health department, churches, schools and community leaders to promote mental health awareness and support those affected and suffering from it.