Every year on 10 October, the global community observe World Mental Health Day (WMHD) to raise awareness of mental health issues  and mobilize efforts to support mental well-being. Mental health encompasses a state of well-being that enables people to cope with life's stresses, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their communities.

The theme for this year reminds us of the importance of ‘Mental health at work’. Speaking at the commemoration of the WMHD in Rehoboth, Dr Richard Banda, WHO Namibia Representative, emphasized that workplace well-being is crucial for a healthy and sustainable workforce, which in turn promotes a more productive and prosperous nation. He urged the community to unite in creating conducive work environments for a healthier future. “Addressing mental health at work should involve the meaningful participation of workers, their representatives, and individuals with lived experience of mental health conditions,” he added.

Honorable Dr Kalumbi Shangula, the Minister of Health and Social Services, in a speech read on his behalf by the he Health Regional Director for Hardap, Ms. Yvonne Stephanus, highlighted that the Ministry is finalizing the Mental Health Bill, which aims to strengthen mental health services, improve access to care, and establish a framework for protecting the rights of individuals with mental health conditions. She emphasized that this legislation is a critical step toward ensuring comprehensive mental health support and promoting well-being across the country. highlighted that the Ministry is finalizing the Mental Health Bill, which aims to strengthen mental health services, improve access to care, and establish a framework for protecting the rights of individuals with mental health conditions. She emphasized that this legislation is a critical step toward ensuring comprehensive mental health support and promoting well-being across the country.

This year, the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) launched an awareness campaign on 29 September in the Hardap and //Kharas regions, leading to the national commemoration of WMHD in Rehoboth, Hardap. The event was observed under the theme, "It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace," emphasizing the vital role of work in shaping our lives. A healthy work environment not only provides structure and purpose but also fosters social connections, enhancing individuals' sense of value and identity.

In conjunction with WMHD, the country also commemorated the World Suicide Prevention Day on the same event. This year’s theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” aimed to challenge the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage open conversations about suicide prevention. The campaign emphasized the importance of understanding the complexities of suicidal behaviour by fostering supportive communities and improving access to mental health services to prevent suicide.

Speaking at the same event, Her Worship the Mayor of Rehoboth, Councillor Amanda Groenewald, stated, “Today, we live in a society where discussing our pain and feelings is often seen as taboo. If we truly want to address issues surrounding suicide, we must confront our challenges head-on,”. She encouraged the nation to seek support from friends, family, and service providers to promote good mental health and overall well-being.

Providing an overview of suicide in Namibia, Ms. Renee Watzdorf, a Chief Social Worker in Hardap region, reported that in 2023, the country recorded 422 suicides of which 60% were men. She emphasized that suicide poses a significant challenge in Namibia and requires urgent, serious interventions to effectively prevent these tragedies.

According to the WHO, 1 in 6 working-age adults globally experiences some form of mental disorder, and an estimated 10% of the employed population has taken time off work due to depression. This situation poses a significant threat to public health and calls for urgent action to protect, promote, and support mental health in the workplace.

People with lived experience of a mental illness and survivors of suicide attempts shared their testimonies highlighting the pain they endured and the strength they found in recovery. This was to inspire hope and resilience in the community, emphasizing the importance of open conversations and supportive environments.