President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has received the 2024 Mental Health Report from the Mental Health Secretariat in a ceremony at State House, highlighting progress in addressing the country’s mental health challenges.

Dr. Carol Labor, National Senior Advisor for Mental Health, presented the report, expressing gratitude for President Bio’s leadership and commitment to mental health. She praised 2024 as a transformative year for the Secretariat, established in April 2023 to address mental health challenges in Sierra Leone.

The report detailed significant strides made by the Secretariat, including providing support to over 1,000 individuals dealing with mental health challenges, victims of substance abuse, and women living with HIV. Specialized programs targeted Kush ambassadors, stress-related conditions, and nationwide advocacy efforts to reduce stigma.

Dr. Labor commended the government’s leadership and called for sustained resources to expand the Secretariat’s initiatives.

In response, President Bio reaffirmed his administration’s prioritization of mental health as a critical pillar of national development. “The establishment of the Mental Health Secretariat was a key step in addressing the growing need for mental health support in Sierra Leone. I am proud of the progress made so far and encourage you to continue working in line with your mandate,” he said.

The President pledged continued government support to strengthen mental health services, emphasizing the sector’s importance in fostering a resilient and productive society.

This latest development underscores Sierra Leone’s growing commitment to addressing mental health as part of its public health agenda.