Shamiri Institute’s Post

🗣 Shamiri Institute is a new addition to the Mulago portfolio 🗣 In Sub-Saharan Africa, 50% of youth face mental health challenges, and in Kenya alone, 5 million young people suffer from mental health disorders. Many adolescents have little-to-no resources to turn to. Shamiri Institute — led by Tom Osborn — has developed an effective, low-cost solution to this problem by tapping into the power of adolescent peers. Their school-based, group intervention is delivered by recent high school graduates and helps high schoolers build resilience to tackle the everyday stressors of poverty and improve their mental health. The beauty is Shamiri Institute’s approach seamlessly integrates into high school settings. They recruit and train recent graduates to deliver an evidence-based curriculum focused on growth mindset, gratitude, and value affirmation to groups of adolescents. Between sessions, students deepen their understanding through thoughtfully designed take-home exercises. Clinical supervisors provide oversight to ensure that more severe cases receive the necessary attention. We’re excited to support Shamiri Institute’s mission to provide effective mental health solutions and improve the lives of young people in Sub-Saharan Africa. Welcome to the Mulago portfolio. Learn more in the comments.

What's driving youth mental health in 🇬🇭#Ghana? Our landscape analysis partners at Africa Academy for Public Health (AAPH) and at the University of Ghana identified three major drivers of young people's #mentalhealth: 👥 Parental and family factors: Parental neglect, harsh parenting styles and overprotection are known risk factors for poor mental health. However, these practices are commonplace in Ghanaian communities. 🏫 Academic and school factors: Stakeholders consulted highlighted that Ghanaian youth face substantial academic pressure due to limited higher education opportunities and pressure to compete with peers and siblings for higher grades. 🌱Lack of adaptive and coping skills: Several stakeholders noted that young people often lack the support systems and coping mechanisms to deal with challenging life events. 👉Download our report to learn more: https://bit.ly/485RS7z Grand Challenges Canada United for Global Mental Health Fondation Botnar NIHR (National Institute for Health and Care Research) Global Affairs Canada | Affaires mondiales Canada Science for Africa Foundation Orygen 

Researching Mental Health Disparities Among Canada’s Youth We are thrilled to share an inspiring initiative led by a University of Alberta researcher aimed at addressing mental health disparities among Canada’s youth. This multi-province project ensures Indigenous, Black, and Chinese Canadian elementary students have access to culturally appropriate mental health resources within their schools. In Canada, approximately one in five children and youth (aged 4-17) face significant mental health issues requiring professional care. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these challenges, particularly for Indigenous, Black, and Chinese Canadian children. Schools play a crucial role in teaching mental health literacy, where early intervention can lead to better long-term outcomes. Assistant Professor Yifeng Wei, from the Department of Psychiatry, has been awarded $200,000 for a three-year project to adapt the Elementary Mental Health Literacy Resource (EMHLR) intervention. This project involves developing inclusive strategies and lesson plans that are relevant to underrepresented groups of children in Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. By overcoming barriers such as stigma and limited access to care, this project aims to provide these children with the tools they need to maintain good mental health throughout their lives. We are excited to see the positive impact this initiative will have on the mental health and well-being of Canada’s youth. #MentalHealth #YouthWellness #InclusiveEducation #MentalHealthAwareness #CommunityHealth #DiversityAndInclusion #ChildrensHealth #EarlyIntervention #MentalHealthLiteracy #Canada https://lnkd.in/e-EUCjei

Unraveling the Hidden Scars: Unveiling the Far-Reaching Consequences of Family Dysfunction on Uganda's Future Generation. As a clinical psychologist, I am deeply concerned about the hidden scars caused by family dysfunction in Uganda. The consequences of such dysfunction are far-reaching and have a profound impact on the future generation. These hidden scars manifest in various ways, including mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and trauma. They also affect the development of healthy relationships, leading to difficulties in forming and maintaining connections with others. Moreover, family dysfunction hinders personal growth and self-esteem, limiting the potential of Uganda's youth. It is crucial to unveil and address these issues through therapy, counseling, and support systems. By providing a safe space for healing, we can empower the future generation to break the cycle of dysfunction and create a brighter future for themselves and their country. Collaboration with communities, schools, and policymakers is essential to raise awareness, promote mental health education, and implement preventive measures. Together, we can unravel the hidden scars and pave the way for a healthier, more resilient future generation in Uganda.

We are excited to have published our pivotal #global #mentalhealth #interventions systematic review and meta-analysis after two years of rigorous critical research. https://lnkd.in/ef7KYy3N

On the 11th March of 2023, we reached out to a primary school in a rural community to provide basic support. Looking back, I realise how greatly mental health and economic status intertwine. Financial instability can cause chronic stress and anxiety among young people who are forced to carry a burden. Constant worry about basic needs such as housing, food, and healthcare can lead to many mental health issues. According to a study published in BMC Psychiatry (2019), approximately 14.3% of adolescents aged 12-17 in Uganda experience significant psychological distress. A 2020 study conducted by the Makerere University School of Public Health found that about 21% of adolescents in Uganda reported symptoms of depression. The same study by Makerere University reported that approximately 13% of adolescents experience anxiety disorders. In an economy where there is an ever increasing financial strain, it is imperative that we provide our communities with skills to handle stress and the ability to build resilience. Our endeavour is to Integrate mental health education into the school curriculum to teach students about mental health, coping mechanisms, and how to seek help. We campaigns to reduce stigma around mental health and encourage open conversations. We are currently using social media, and community outreach to spread awareness. Visit our youtube channel @ Zaantu Speaks www.speaks.zaantu.com #MentalHealthMatters, #MentalHealthAwareness, #BreakTheStigma, #EndTheStigma #YouthMentalHealth, #AdolescentMentalHealth, #TeensMatter, #YouthWellbeing #MentalHealthUganda, #UgandaYouth, #UgandaMentalHealth, #HealthyUganda #AccessToMentalHealth, #MentalHealthServices, #MentalHealthCare, #SupportSystems. #MentalHealthEducation, #MentalHealthAwarenessUganda, #EducateForMentalHealth, #MentalHealthInSchools. #StopSubstanceAbuse, #YouthAgainstDrugs, #SubstanceAbusePrevention. #MentalHealthPolicy, #AdvocateForMentalHealth, #MentalHealthRights #SuicidePrevention, #CrisisSupport, #PeerSupport, #CommunitySupport

Congratulations to Dr. Colin McLaren for receiving a New Health Investigator Grant for research exploring shared social identity and positive mental health in Cape Breton youth clubs. Approximately 1 in 5 Canadians report a mental health challenge before age 25, and 70% of Canadians living with mental illness see symptoms before age 18. This makes childhood and adolescence critical periods for mental health promotion. In Cape Breton, youth poverty rates, substance abuse, and antisocial behaviours can be connected to a lack of social groups offering youth the capacity to develop resilience, connection and social support. This research will examine the associations between leadership, social identity, and resilience, and examine the behaviours used by group leaders to strengthen social identity from the perspectives of leaders, youth, and parents/caregivers. This research could inform and set the foundation for specific ways youth club leaders can promote a shared sense of social identity among members, which in turn promotes positive mental health. View the full list of 2023/24 New Health Investigator Grant recipients: https://bit.ly/49h1Q75 Cape Breton University #youthmentalhealth #socialidentity

A few weeks ago, I had an engaging discussion with Stephen Senyo Tettegah at Let's Talk Education Africa, a podcast exploring education practice & research in Africa. Our discussion highlighted the pressing need to address mental health issues within our educational systems. It’s clear that while academic success is important, the mental well-being of learners is equally crucial for their overall development and future prospects. 🎯 Some key takeaways from the Episode: There is an urgent need to increase mental health literacy, destigmatize mental health and integrate mental health education into school curricula to build resilience and instill healthy coping mechanisms📚. Many regions in Africa lack sufficient mental health resources in education. Investing in school guidance counsellors 👩🏫 , training teachers in recognising mental health challenges in learners, and providing accessible support services can make a significant difference. Incorporating mental health into the broader educational framework to foster a more holistic approach to learners development, emphasizing emotional and psychological growth alongside academic achievement. Take a Listen 🎧 https://bit.ly/3X3NGTo #Mentalhealthinschools #Education #HolisticDevelopment #MentalHealthAwareness

🎙️ Just wrapped up a powerful webinar for Ghanaian university students, delving into the crucial topic of navigating social media and technology for mental health awareness month! 💻 I had the privilege of sharing insights into managing mental health amidst the digital landscape. We explored the dual nature of social media: its potential for community building, networking, and talent showcasing, alongside the detrimental effects of comparison and its impact on mental well-being. Sharing my personal journey with comparison, I highlighted the importance of self-awareness in combating negative mental health patterns. By setting boundaries, curating online content, and practicing critical thinking, we can navigate social media mindfully and protect our mental health. Empowering the audience to share their stories and leverage social media for positive change, I reflected on my own mental health advocacy journey, stemming from personal challenges at a young age. Moreover, I emphasized the significance of spirituality and staying close to faith when it comes to mental health, encouraging students to use discernment on social media platforms. Grateful to Rifa Coolheart and the team at Global Writers Project for the opportunity to advocate for mental health awareness, especially in communities such as Ghana where it's often stigmatized. Let's continue the conversation and empower one another to prioritize mental well-being in the digital age. 💬 #MentalHealthAwareness #SocialMediaWellness #advocay #MentalHealthAwarenessGhana

recent research paper on mental health in Pakistan is "Insanity and Madness in the Construction of Mental Health and Well-being among Pakistani Women". This paper analyzes the impact of social determinants on mental health and well-being among Pakistani women. The study found that religion or spirituality plays a significant role in how mental health is perceived in Pakistan, with individuals with poor mental health often viewed as "lacking fear of God." The paper also highlights the need for culturally sensitive and measurable mental health tools in Pakistan's nursing practice, as existing models are predominantly based on Western mental health and well-being. The study suggests that integrating mental health concepts in community and public health could lead to positive developments in mental health education, practice, and services in Pakistan. #WorldMentalHealthDay #MentalHealthMatters