Joshua Duncan, the Country Director of the Mental Health Coalition Sierra Leone, has revealed a worrying statistic: one in every four or five individuals in Sierra Leone is affected by mental health issues.

This startling figure underscores the growing mental health crisis in the country, affecting people from all walks of life.

Speaking during an interview about the prevalence of mental health disorders, Duncan pointed out that depression is one of the most common conditions, experienced by people across various backgrounds. He emphasized that mental health problems can arise from multiple factors, including genetic predispositions and traumatic events.

“Mental health issues can be linked to genetics. In some cases, it runs in families, and when this happens, society often attributes it to supernatural causes, labeling it as demonic possession,” Duncan explained.

He went on to describe how natural disasters, like floods or fires, also play a significant role in mental health challenges. “Survivors of such disasters often suffer from immense stress and grief, which can lead to long-term psychological distress,” he added.

In terms of recognizing mental health disorders, Duncan highlighted that there are clear signs and symptoms, which, when properly understood, can help in early intervention and treatment. However, he noted that many people in Sierra Leone still lack awareness about mental health, leading to stigma and misconceptions.

The Mental Health Coalition, under Duncan’s leadership, continues to advocate for better mental health services in the country. They aim to raise public awareness, reduce stigma, and promote accessible treatment options for those suffering from mental health conditions. Duncan urged the government and stakeholders to invest more in mental health infrastructure, noting that addressing this issue is critical for the overall well-being of the nation.

With mental health disorders on the rise, the call for comprehensive mental health services has never been more urgent, as Sierra Leone grapples with the growing burden of untreated psychological conditions in its population.