By Kadijatu Bangura, Daily Scope Reporter
On October 10, 2025, the nation marked World Mental Health Day 2025 with the theme, “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” highlighting mental health as a fundamental human right. The day served as an opportunity to reflect on the ongoing efforts to enhance the mental health framework.
A press conference at Brookfields Hotel in Freetown assembled key stakeholders, including government officials, civil society representatives, health development partners, media personnel, and mental health professionals. The discussions centered on advancements in mental health service delivery, notably the training of over 500 mental health practitioners across the country.
Central to the dialogue was the proposed Mental Health Bill, aimed at replacing the antiquated Lunacy Act of 1902. Stakeholders emphasized the necessity of modernizing this legislation to ensure it aligns with contemporary human rights standards and addresses the needs of individuals living with mental health conditions. Emphasis was placed on ethical treatment and the protection of vulnerable populations, alongside the expansion of access to mental health care.
Speakers addressed the critical challenges that arise during disasters and public health crises, periods when mental health support is most crucial yet often lacking. They advocated for the integration of mental health services into disaster preparedness and response strategies to provide timely psychological assistance.
Representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with the Ministry of Health and Sanitation to bolster mental health systems, enhance service delivery, and ensure that care reaches remote and underserved areas. The event concluded with a call for unified action from government entities, civil society, and international partners to prioritize mental health, particularly in times of crisis, reinforcing the principle that mental health is a universal human right.
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