A mental health awareness campaign and free consultation event was held on October 1 at the Danyi Prefectural Hospital Center in Togo. The event, organized by the Association for Mental Health Development in Togo (ASMDT) in collaboration with the Togolese Mental Health Society (SoToSaM), provided medical consultations to 152 individuals suffering from conditions such as loss of consciousness, epilepsy, and mental behavioral disorders.
The medical teams at the event also diagnosed other pathologies, including depressive states and addictive behaviors linked to the use of psychoactive substances. The campaign aimed to bring quality mental health care to the community, focusing on both prevention and treatment. The initiative received support from Expertise France through a tripartite project involving the CHU Campus Lomé, Vinatier Hospital in Lyon, and Esquirol Hospital in Limoges.
The campaign not only provided medical consultations but also aimed to raise awareness among the population about the risk factors of mental illnesses and encourage acceptance of people living with mental disabilities without discrimination or stigma. The event was attended by various stakeholders, including medical professionals and local authorities.
Prof Wenkourama Daméga, president of the Togolese Association of Psychiatrists, emphasized that mental illness and substance abuse can have severe repercussions on the health and lives of those affected and their loved ones. He advised the population to adopt healthy behaviors to prevent or reduce mental illnesses.
Koumagnanou Amavi, prefect of Danyi, welcomed the initiative, stating that it came at a crucial time to alleviate the suffering of mental health patients and their families. He encouraged other well-meaning individuals to join the partners in promoting the well-being of the community.
As part of the initiative, a specialized mental health care unit was established in the Danyi health district to ensure continuity of care for patients. The unit will provide ongoing support and treatment to those affected by mental health conditions.
The mental health awareness campaign in Danyi is a significant step towards addressing the mental health needs of the community. The event demonstrated the importance of collaboration between stakeholders, including medical professionals, local authorities, and organizations, in promoting mental health and well-being.
Key points
- A total of 152 people received medical consultations during the mental health awareness campaign in Danyi.
- The campaign aimed to raise awareness about mental health and encourage acceptance of people living with mental disabilities.
- A specialized mental health care unit was established in the Danyi health district to ensure continuity of care for patients.
