Cameroon's National Psychological Assistance Service Available 24/7

The Cameroonian national psychological assistance service, operated by the country's Red Cross, provides round-the-clock support to individuals struggling with mental health issues. The service can be reached by dialing 1511, a toll-free number that connects callers with trained volunteers and psychologists. According to Simone Thierry Ezeogu, a clinical psychologist and head of the national psychological assistance cell at the Cameroonian Red Cross, the service is designed to provide support to anyone in need, regardless of their location or background.

The service offers support for a wide range of issues, including stress, domestic violence, depression, suicidal thoughts, sexual abuse, and feelings of rejection or loneliness. Ezeogu explained that the service is staffed by volunteers from the Red Cross and psychologists from the Ministry of Public Health's mental health department. This multi-layered approach ensures that callers receive the support they need, from initial listening and counseling to more specialized interventions.

When a person calls the 1511 hotline, they are initially connected with one of the ten volunteer responders who work for the service. The responder will ask the caller to introduce themselves before listening to their concerns. Depending on the nature of the issue, the responder may provide immediate support or refer the caller to a psychologist for further assistance. Ezeogu emphasized that the service is available to all Cameroonians, and that callers can access support at any time.

The national psychological assistance service was established to address the growing need for mental health support in Cameroon. The country has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including the ongoing conflict in the North-West and South-West regions, which has resulted in significant psychological trauma for many individuals. By providing a free and confidential hotline, the service aims to reach those who may be struggling with mental health issues and provide them with the support they need.

Ezeogu highlighted the importance of seeking help for mental health issues, saying that many people in Cameroon suffer in silence due to stigma or lack of access to support services. He encouraged anyone who is struggling with their mental health to reach out to the service, emphasizing that help is available 24 hours a day. The service has already received numerous calls since its inception, demonstrating the demand for mental health support in the country.

The national psychological assistance service is part of a broader effort to improve mental health care in Cameroon. The Ministry of Public Health has been working to strengthen the country's mental health services, including the development of new policies and programs aimed at promoting mental well-being and preventing mental illness. The service is also working with other organizations, including non-governmental organizations and community groups, to raise awareness about mental health issues and promote access to support services.

As the national psychological assistance service continues to operate, it is likely to play an increasingly important role in supporting the mental health and well-being of Cameroonians. With its 24/7 hotline and team of trained responders and psychologists, the service is well-positioned to provide critical support to those in need. Key points include:

Key points

• The service provides 24/7 support via a toll-free hotline (1511) for individuals struggling with mental health issues.
• The service is staffed by volunteers from the Red Cross and psychologists from the Ministry of Public Health's mental health department.
• The service offers support for a wide range of issues, including stress, domestic violence, depression, and suicidal thoughts.