To commemorate World Mental Health Day on 10 October, the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) supported awareness activities in Ituri Province’s Djugu territory and the city of Bunia. The initiative aimed to foster open dialogue on mental health and underscore the importance of peace in promoting psychological well‑being.
Mental health remains a significant concern in the region, which has endured years of conflict and trauma. Stigmatizing terms such as “mad” or “crazy” are still prevalent, perpetuating negative attitudes toward individuals living with mental health conditions. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is a crucial component of overall well‑being, enabling people to cope with challenges and participate in community life. Common conditions in the area include depression, anxiety, post‑traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Ongoing armed violence, displacement, the destruction of schools and health centres, and food insecurity further exacerbate psychological distress.
To address these issues, MONUSCO’s medical contingents from Bangladesh and Nepal, together with community liaison assistants, organized information sessions in several locations. More than 100 participants—women leaders, young people, traditional authorities and representatives of local organisations—attended. Discussions focused on identifying symptoms, understanding causes and available treatments, and exploring ways to prevent mental‑health problems, with particular emphasis on reducing stigma.
The initiative has been well‑received by the local community. Participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn about mental health without judgment, noting that the sessions promoted dialogue and peace by highlighting the link between conflict and mental‑health problems. MONUSCO continues to support efforts that strengthen dialogue and social cohesion—key elements for mental well‑being and lasting peace—in collaboration with local partners. By providing tools to build resilience and encouraging conversation, MONUSCO is working toward a more peaceful and stable future for the region. As the international community increasingly recognises the importance of mental health, initiatives like this remind us of the need for sustained support and awareness‑raising to address the complex challenges faced by conflict‑affected communities.
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