Mental Health Awareness Takes Centre Stage at the Hope of Victims Workshop

The Hope of Victims Mental Health Workshop, hosted by Unicaf University and held at its amphitheatre in Lusaka, successfully brought together individuals and experts to foster awareness and promote mental wellness. Organised by Hope of Victims Zambia, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to mental health advocacy, the event was part of a broader Mental Health Awareness Campaign aimed at equipping young people with knowledge and coping strategies to address depression and suicide.

The workshop specifically targeted teenagers from Grades 10-12 across Lusaka schools, providing them with professional guidance on recognising and managing mental health challenges. The initiative aimed to create a safe space where young people could engage with mental health professionals, trained counsellors and survivors of depression and suicide.

The workshop featured two distinguished mental health coaches: Coach Winnieh from Project Life Designs and Coach Mike from the Self Discovery Organisation. Together, they led insightful discussions on emotional well-being, coping mechanisms and strategies for self-empowerment. Their sessions were complemented by testimonies from survivors, interactive training exercises, and group discussions to encourage open dialogue on mental well-being and reduce stigma.

Speaking at the event, Coach Winnieh highlighted the significance of self-care and mental resilience in overcoming life’s challenges. Coach Mike further emphasised the importance of self-discovery in the healing process, equipping attendees with practical tools to navigate personal struggles.

The event also received media coverage, with recordings set to be aired on ZNBC to reach a broader audience and further amplify the message of mental health awareness.

The Hope of Victims initiative continues to champion mental health awareness, ensuring individuals, especially young people, have access to the knowledge and support needed to thrive. As mental health remains a growing concern, events like this workshop play a crucial role in destigmatising discussions and promoting proactive well-being.