By Mamello Phomane, CEO Metropolitan Lesotho
In a world that is becoming increasingly aware of mental health challenges, Lesotho stands at a critical+ juncture. Ranked among the bottom five nations on the global Happiness Index, alongside Lebanon, Sierra Leone, and DR Congo, our beautiful nation faces a mental health crisis. Despite being a small country with a population of just over 2 million, we are grappling with one of the highest suicide rates globally. This stark reality demands immediate action.
At Metropolitan, this issue hits close to home. The painful loss of lives within our own business community has highlighted the urgency of addressing mental health. It is with this heavy awareness that we launch our Mental Health Awareness Campaign this October, which coincides with World Mental Health Day. This year’s theme, “It’s Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace”, resonates with us deeply.
The Importance of Mental Health in the Workplace
The workplace plays a significant role in shaping our mental well-being. We spend a significant portion of our day working, and what happens in the office impacts how we think, feel, and interact both at work and home. Likewise, personal issues often spill into our professional lives, creating a cycle of stress that affects overall productivity and happiness. This is why we, as Metropolitan, believe that prioritizing mental health at work can make a profound difference.
Our Commitment: Partners in Mental Health Advocacy
In our quest to tackle this crisis, we have formed partnerships that will help us reach as many people as possible struggling with mental Health issues in our society. We are thrilled to be partnering with the National Health Training College, Maluti Rotary club and Saffron Conscious to amplify our initiatives Together, we intend to bring mental health awareness within the Metropolitan community and it’s stakeholders by encouraging open conversations and empowering all of us to speak up about our struggles.
Partnering with the National Health Training College and Maluti Rotary Club, we are extending our mental health awareness campaign to schools through the School Mental Health Program. This initiative will introduce students to the fundamentals of mental health, helping them understand and manage stress, peer pressure, and anxiety. By working with local educational institutions, we aim to empower the younger generation with tools that will support their mental well-being as they transition into adulthood.
Additionally, our wellness initiative called M-Power will extend mental health support to our Medical Aid and Retirement Fund clients. This program provides clients with access to critical mental health resources, to help them navigate the stress related to healthcare, financial planning, and retirement. By integrating these services into our existing offerings, we strive to enhance the overall well-being of our clients at every stage of their lives.
We are also partnering with Saffron Conscious to host a series of webinars that will cover essential mental health topics such as workplace stress management, family dynamics, and general mental wellness. These webinars are open to both Metropolitan staff and the broader public, and they will offer valuable insights and practical advice for managing mental health challenges in our everyday lives.
Furthermore, we are excited to launch a men’s mental health initiative, “Metropolitan Khotla,” which aims to break the silence around men’s mental health challenges. Studies show that men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues, making them more vulnerable. Through “Metropolitan Khotla,” we hope to create safe spaces where men can share their experiences and support each other.
Join Us in This Critical Campaign
Our mental health awareness campaign will feature webinars, social media engagements, and community outreach programs. These activities are open to everyone—our staff, their families, and the wider public. Mental health is not just a personal issue; it affects us all, whether at home, at work, or in schools, mental health matters, and together we can make a difference.
At Metropolitan, we believe no one should face mental health challenges alone. Let’s hold hands and confront this crisis, empowering our people to live happier, healthier lives.
Together, we can!
