By YouthHub Africa,
It’s another week, and I am really excited to touch base with you; let me start by wishing you a happy new month…
I am not sure you are aware of this, but the month of May is also declared Mental Health Awareness Month. In 2019, research showed that 1 in every 8 people, or 970 million people around the world, were living with a mental disorder, with anxiety and depressive disorders the most common. In 2020, the number of people living with anxiety and depressive disorders rose significantly because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Initial estimates show a 26% and 28% increase, respectively, for anxiety and major depressive disorders in just one year. (According to WHO)
I know that’s a lot of information, and truly, you may wonder. I am not sure I have noticed anyone around me who might be going through a mental health struggle. All my friends are happy people. Even though Adulthood is quite demanding, we find our way around it.
Meet Haile-Mariam, on the outside, she is a picture of perfection – top grades, a killer smile, and always ready with a witty comeback.
Here is what her life looks like:
The Joker: Ever noticed how Haile-Mariam is always cracking jokes, making everyone laugh ’til their sides hurt? Yeah, that’s the go-to mask. They’re the class clown, the life of the party – anything to keep the spotlight off what’s really going on inside.
The Overachiever: Straight-A student, president of the chess club—you name it, Haile-Mariam does it. They’re constantly busy, jumping from one activity to the next like a squirrel on caffeine. But here’s the thing: all that busyness is just a distraction from the emptiness gnawing away inside.
The Perfectionist: Ever noticed how Haile-Mariam freaks out over the tiniest mistake? Yeah, that’s their perfectionism rearing its ugly head. They’re obsessed with getting everything just right – the perfect grades, the perfect appearance, the perfect life. But deep down, they know it’s all just a façade.
The People-Pleaser: Haile-Mariam is everyone’s shoulder to cry on, their rock in times of need. They’re always there for their friends, no matter what. But when it comes to their own struggles? They’d rather suffer in silence than burden anyone else with their problems.
The Escapist: Ever noticed how Haile-Mariam is always glued to their phone, lost in a world of memes and cat videos? Yeah, that’s their escape hatch. They’d rather scroll through Instagram for hours than face the demons lurking in their own mind.
However, behind all these, and behind closed doors, things aren’t as rosy as they seem.
Does picturing Haile-Mariam strike a chord?
The theme for this year: “Where to Start,” was chosen with the goal of helping anyone struggling with the pressure of today’s world, feeling alone, or wondering if they can feel better.
YouthhubAfrica’s effort is hinged on equipping young people to take center stage for Africa’s development, recognizing that mental health is a cornerstone of their well-being and success. YHA’s goal is only achievable when we prioritize the mental health and emotional resilience of our youth, ensuring they have the support and resources needed to thrive personally and contribute meaningfully to the continent’s growth and prosperity.
Hence my note to you this afternoon. I recommend reaching out as to where to start…..Remember, depression is a sneaky little bugger, but it’s no match for a strong support system. So, keep your eyes peeled, lend a listening ear, and above all, show some love. Because sometimes, that’s all it takes to tear down the walls someone’s built around their heart.
