By MAIMBO MWEEMBA
Southern Province Health Director Callista Kaayunga has called for consented effort in helping people living with mental health conditions and illness and not discriminates against them.
Speaking in a speech read on his behalf by clinical care specialist Clive Banda during the commemoration of world mental health day, Dr Kaayunga, said despite efforts by government to improve mental health in the country there has been increased discrimination against people suffering from mental health countrywide.
Dr Kaayunga has since called for continued investment in mental healthcare so that there is enough facility to take care of people suffering from mental illness.
He added that to help curb stigma against mental there’s need for members of the community to be on board to help though togetherness.
And guest of honor Livingstone City Mayor Constance Muleabai said it is government’s responsibility to ensure that role suffering from mental illness’ dignity is restored.
Ms Muleabai added having a mental health condition should not have their rights violated against
She also challenged citizens to embrace people with mental health conditions and illness as the fight calls for concerted efforts as everyone is affected.
And a mental illness survivor Sianga Sianga called for support from citizens adding that the discrimination mentally challenged people face is worrying.
This year’s world health mental day was commemorated under the theme: Mental health is a universal human right
