Health expert Dr Charles Masulani has called for inclusive programming in mental health services.
Dr Masulani, who is also the Chief Executive Officer for St John of God Hospitaller Services Malawi, said this during commemorations of World Mental Health Day for Mzimba North held in Mzuzu.
He said time has come to move beyond merely listening to people with mental health conditions to actively involving them in decision-making.
He further said services become more effective, humane and recovery-oriented when they are shaped by those who have lived the experience.
“This year’s theme, ‘Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,’ is a reminder that lived experience is expertise. If we want to reduce stigma and improve access to care, we must create space where real voices lead to real change,” said Masulani.
Masulani added that stigma and discrimination remain major barriers preventing people from seeking help, and called on communities to be more empathetic and non-judgmental.
The commemorations were held under the global theme “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change” as designated by the World Health Organization.
This year’s event also featured testimonies from people with lived experience, including Seth Mhobe, who shared how seeking support from MZUNI Hope Initiative helped him on his recovery journey.
World Mental Health Day is commemorated every year on 10th October to raise awareness and mobilize efforts in support of mental health.
By Chimwemwe Milulu
