Windhoek: Namibia recorded 91,544 new mental health cases during the 2024/25 financial year, with 11,489 patients admitted for treatment. Chief Health Programme Officer in the Ministry of Health and Social Services, Magdalena Didalelwa, provided an overview of the country's mental health situation during the Hardap Regional School Health Task Force training.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Didalelwa noted that 123 people with mental health conditions died during the same period, and 365 attempted suicides were recorded in the Ohangwena Region between April 2024 and June 2025. She highlighted that police statistics have shown high numbers of suicide cases among men, with 12 suicide cases reported between 19 and 30 July 2026.
Didalelwa cautioned that these statistics represent only a fraction of the actual mental health burden, as many cases remain undiagnosed due to limited awareness and persistent stigma. She identified stigma and discrimination, family distress, social ills, and co-existing physical and mental health conditions as key challenges impacting vulnerable groups.
She further explained the economic impact of mental health issues, including loss of productivity, increased healthcare costs, and disability claims. Didalelwa emphasized that schools face challenges involving learner behavior, substance use, and mental illness, while teachers often lack the skills to manage these issues.
She stressed the need for stronger multi-sectoral collaboration through school health structures to promote early identification, referral, and support for learners experiencing mental health challenges. Currently, mental health services are available at only two specialized facilities in Namibia: the Mental Health Unit at Windhoek Central Hospital and Ward 16 at the Oshakati Intermediate Hospital. The country has a limited number of mental health professionals, with only six psychiatrists, eight psychologists, and 21 nurses with specialized training in the public health service.
Meanwhile, the Mental Health Bill, currently before the National Council, aims to prioritize human rights, community care, and rehabilitation. Didalelwa noted that draft regulations prepared in 2021 are awaiting finalization, and the Mental Health Policy has been revised with an implementation plan drafted.
The National Mental Health Programme, under the Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Division within the Primary Health Care Directorate, is responsible for policy formulation, strategic planning, technical support, human resource training, and monitoring of mental health activities. The program focuses on awareness-raising, human-capacity building, and strengthening leadership and governance.