On 22nd October 2025, YONECO conducted a mental health awareness session with students at Ntaja Community Day Secondary School (CDSS) in Machinga.
The session focused on understanding the causes of poor mental health, which include family history, negative life experiences, and drug and substance abuse. The officers also discussed the effects of mental health challenges, such as difficulty performing daily activities, loneliness, physical illness, and poor concentration at school or work.
YONECO also demystified the belief that mental health problems are related to witchcraft, which prevents people from seeking professional help.
Students were guided on where to seek help when facing life challenges, including reaching out to YONECO offices or the Police Victim Support Units for assistance.
At the end of the session, a youth club was established to provide a platform for continuous engagement.
#MentalHealthMattersEveryDay #MentalHealthForAll #MentalHealthAwareness
