Statistics provided by the National Policy for Mental Health say 108,313 adults have common mental disorders, while at least 21,500 adults have serious mental disorders.

To address these alarming figures, the Ministry of Health and Social Services in 2023 integrated mental health into primary health to develop standard operating procedures for mental health screening.

It was also decided to train health care providers in mental health issues and to innovate tools like community mental kits.

Mental Health Awareness Month is commemorated in May every year.

Speaking at the official event, the Minister of Health and Social Services said they are revising mental health treatment to align it with human rights and global standards that will be finalised this financial year.

Dr. Esperance Luvindao emphasised that the ministry is planning to visit Zimbabwe next month for benchmarking.

Furthermore, she called for the implementation and monitoring of policy so that mental health services are accessible, equitable, and of high standard across all regions.

Mental health month was identified with the aim to raise public awareness about mental health and wellness, to reduce the stigma associated with mental illnesses, and to encourage people affected to seek help and support.