BENTIU — South Sudan Ministry of Health on Friday launched a five-year National Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Strategic Plan aimed at empowering communities to reduce stigma and improving access to care.
The plan, which runs from 2025 to 2029, aims to improve access to care, enhance community resilience, and provide treatment for mental health.
The National Ministry of Health leads the plan, with technical support from the World Health Organization and other partners.
Speaking at the launch of the strategic plan on Friday in Juba, Minister of Health Sarah Cleto Rial highlighted the significance of mental health support, pointing out that untreated mental disorders can affect productivity, social cohesion, and peace.
“Everyone is affected by mental health problems in South Sudan. This stress weighs not only on our bodies but also on our minds; in such a context, mental health can’t be sidelined without support,” said Cleto.
Cleto stressed the need for self-improvement in personal behavior and interactions within the community to improve mental health.
“We cannot achieve universal health care or health coverage. Untreated mental disorders undermine productivity, social cohesion, and peace,” she added.
She urged that the strategic plan be implemented, highlighting the importance of addressing mental health, restoring hope, and reinforcing the nation.
The launching ceremony also marked World Mental Health Day, observed on October 10th, under the theme “Mental Health in Humanitarian Emergencies.”
