Namibia records over 11,000 mental health admissions, faces stigma and limited services

Magdalena Didalelwa, chief health programme officer at the Ministry of Health and Social Services, highlighted stigma, family distress, social ills, and economic impacts like lost productivity and increased healthcare costs. She noted 365 attempted suicides in the Ohangwena region between April 2024 and June 2025, with 12 deaths between July 19 and 30, 2026, and a higher suicide rate among men. Didalelwa stated that many cases remain undiagnosed due to limited awareness and stigma, and called for multi-sectoral collaboration in schools to address pupil behavior, substance abuse, and mental health challenges.

Currently, mental health services are limited to Windhoek Central Hospital and Oshakati Intermediate Hospital, with only six psychiatrists, eight psychologists, and 21 trained nurses. A mental health bill before the National Council aims to prioritize human rights, community care, and rehabilitation, and expand services beyond hospitals. National Council member Augusta Katembo noted that mental health in rural areas is often linked to witchcraft and misunderstanding, leading to isolation and lack of treatment due to shame and fear.

She also cited drug abuse, limited access to specialized facilities, and shortages of trained professionals as contributing factors. Traditional leaders like Hompa Alfon