By Vaye A.Lepolu
A recent discussion on mental health advocacy has sparked calls for greater prioritization of mental well-being in national policies. A visiting delegate Dr. Williametta Simmons, who recently returned from America, highlighted the significant efforts that the country has made in integrating mental health awareness and support into its governance and media. The speaker emphasized the need for similar action in Liberia, urging policymakers to move mental health from the margins to the forefront of the national budget and policy discussions.
Speaking on the issue, Dr. Williametta Simmons noted that mental health remains a neglected subject, often dismissed or misunderstood. “You don’t have to be mentally ill to talk about mental health,” they stated, stressing the importance of normalizing conversations around emotional well-being. The discussion underscored how, in times of global crises, countries around the world—including South Africa, Latin America, and the United States—have addressed the emotional and psychological impact of disasters. However, in Liberia, there remains a gap in policies that tackle unhealthy societal behaviors and values through structured mental health interventions.
The advocate further called on the government to implement educational programs that promote healthier communities and families. They stressed that 2025 presents a critical opportunity to introduce policies that ensure mental health services extend beyond Monrovia to rural areas, where access to support systems is even more limited. The speaker urged the government to consider expert recommendations and allocate resources to mental health education, prevention, and treatment and budgetary support.
Additionally, the discussion highlighted the issue of addiction, which continues to be a major concern. The visiting team, involved in mental health and addiction recovery initiatives, has been working in Liberia since 2013. Their continued engagement, particularly with vulnerable communities, underscores the need for a stronger national framework to support individuals battling addiction and mental health challenges.
With a renewed focus on mental health advocacy, stakeholders hope that Liberia will take concrete steps to integrate mental well-being into its broader health and social development agenda.
