Collins Tanyuy, a mental health specialist, has said that prioritizing telemedicine in both community and urban settings can significantly enhance mental health interventions. Talking to The Post, Tanyuy stated that telemedicine enables individuals to connect with mental health professionals from the comfort of their homes, thereby reducing barriers related to transportation and stigma. He also highlighted the importance of promoting positive help-seeking behavior and integrating mental health services into primary healthcare as crucial steps to improve overall health interventions. Read the excerpts:
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The Post: In many Cameroonian cultures, severe mental illness is often attributed to ‘witchcraft’ or ‘family curses’ (generational curses). How can we respect our cultural heritage while educating families that these are medical conditions requiring professional clinical intervention?
Collins Tanyuy: To respect cultural heritage while promoting mental health interventions, one effective approach is the transcultural model. This model emphasizes that no culture is superior to another, recognizing that cultural values are passed down from one generation to the next. In order to respect cultural heritage in the treatment of mental illnesses, it is essential to integrate traditional healers and community leaders into the mental health education process.
By involving these key figures, we can ensure that cultural boundaries are respected, while also promoting the rights of individuals living with mental illnesses. This approach helps bridge the gap between cultural beliefs and conventional medicine, creating a more inclusive environment for those seeking help.
Collaboration with traditional healers is particularly important. By understanding the cultural narratives surrounding mental illness, we can work together to develop educational materials that are sensitive to these beliefs. This can enhance the effectiveness of mental health interventions and foster a stronger connection between traditional practices and modern treatment methods.
With the ongoing socio-political crisis in the North-West and South-West, thousands are displaced and traumatized. Are our current healthcare structures equipped to handle ‘invisible wounds’ like PTSD, or are we only focusing on the physical injuries of the conflict?
In the context of the socio-political crisis, it is evident that mental health issues have become deeply ingrained in many communities, resulting in numerous individuals living with psychological wounds. Unfortunately, mental health is often the most neglected aspect of public health, frequently overshadowed by stigma and social discrimination. This environment discourages many people from seeking help from mental health specialists.
In Cameroon, particularly in two regions affected by the ongoing socio-political turmoil, there is a significant shortage of mental health professionals. Many hospitals lack the specialists needed to address these pressing issues effectively. As a result, affected communities often struggle to find adequate support.
However, some non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and faith-based groups, such as churches, have to stepped in to fill this gap. These organizations have trained volunteers and healthcare workers in basic mental health care practices.
They provide psychosocial support and psychological first aid to help individuals cope with the impact of the crisis. This grassroots effort is crucial in reaching those in need, as it allows for immediate assistance in communities where access to formal mental health services is limited.
We see an increasing number of mentally ill individuals wandering the streets of Yaoundé and Douala, often naked or eating from refuse. What innovative strategies can be implemented to improve mental health awareness, access to care, and reduce stigma in Cameroon, considering the cultural and economic context?
Innovative strategies to improve mental health awareness and access to care can significantly impact communities. One effective approach is to prioritize telemedicine, especially in community-based settings. This allows individuals to connect with mental health professionals from the comfort of their homes, helping to eliminate barriers related to transportation and stigma.
Another valuable strategy is the establishment of mobile mental health clinics, which can reach displaced populations and those living in remote areas. These clinics offer essential services directly to communities that may lack access to traditional healthcare facilities.
Regular public awareness campaigns play a crucial role in reducing stigma surrounding mental health. Utilizing local languages and various media platforms enhances the relatability and effectiveness of these campaigns. Educating the public about mental health encourages a supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable seeking help.
Promoting positive help-seeking behavior is also vital. Community-focused campaigns can emphasize the benefits of early intervention and demonstrate how mental health treatment can improve overall quality of life. Additionally, addressing recreational drug use through strengthened public security measures can be crucial. Providing education and support helps prevent substance abuse, which is often linked to untreated mental health issues.
Integrating mental health services into primary healthcare is another important step. By treating mental health alongside physical health, patients can receive comprehensive care tailored to their individual needs. Furthermore, fostering collaboration among different sectors, such as the Ministry of Education, Defense, and Social Affairs, can help create a robust support system for mental health initiatives.
By implementing these strategies, we can build a more supportive and accessible mental health care system, encouraging individuals to seek help and fostering a greater understanding of mental health within our communities.
It is often said in our society that ‘we don’t wash our dirty linen in public,’ leading families to hide mentally ill relatives in backrooms or chains. How can we break this silence so that mental health becomes a topic discussed at the dining table rather than a secret kept in the shadows?
The issue of hiding relatives with mental illness is complicated and affects many families. It stems from a mix of fear, misunderstanding, and stigma in society. Many people still believe that mental illness is something to be ashamed of, leading families to keep their struggles secret.
Raising awareness about mental health is essential for changing this perspective. When we talk openly about mental illnesses, we can help people understand that they are just like physical illnesses. Conditions such as depression or anxiety are real health issues that can be treated effectively.
Getting community leaders involved can make a real difference. Mayors and Members of Parliament have the power to influence public opinion. They can create campaigns that promote mental health awareness and encourage people to seek help without feeling embarrassed. When leaders share their support, it sends a strong message that mental health is important and deserves attention.
Additionally, community programs and resources can be developed to provide support for those struggling. This can include workshops, counseling services, and support groups. By offering these resources, we can create an environment where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength, not weakness.
Interviewed by Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
