Mpilo Central Hospital Launches New Mental Health Facility

In Bulawayo, Mpilo Central Hospital has unveiled a specialized Mental Health Clinic, targeting the rising tide of drug and substance abuse across Zimbabwe.

Sister Hango Ndebele, the clinic’s head, emphasized its unique focus on mental health, differentiating it from other hospital services through its comprehensive approach.

“We treat the whole person,” Ndebele stated, underscoring the clinic’s holistic method which considers both mental and physical health in patient care.

The clinic also engages with patients’ families, recognizing the supportive role they play in recovery, integrating them into the treatment process.

Beyond mental health, the clinic screens for major physical health issues like HIV, TB, and hepatitis, aiming to address co-occurring disorders.

Clients arrive at the clinic either voluntarily or are brought in by loved ones or emergency services, often in critical states due to substance use.

The demographic of patients varies widely, with Ndebele noting, “We see substance abuse starting in children as young as 10, peaking in the working-age group, and even affecting seniors.”

This new facility has significantly reduced the patient load at Ingutsheni Central Hospital, allowing for more localized medication distribution.

Staffing includes four nurses trained by the World Health Organization, alongside volunteers from Gap and Friendship Bench, enhancing the clinic’s outreach and therapy options.

Psychologists lend their expertise for free, expanding the clinic’s capacity to screen for and treat depression, anxiety, and substance use in schools.

The clinic’s commitment extends to daily support for individuals contemplating or having attempted suicide, providing crucial psychotherapy and family involvement.

Ndebele highlighted the gender dynamics in suicide attempts, explaining, “Women often seek attention through para-suicide, contrasting with men’s more lethal approaches.”

Community outreach is a quarterly endeavor, with campaigns touching various neighborhoods, spreading awareness and offering mental health screenings.

This initiative by Mpilo Central Hospital not only addresses immediate mental health crises but also builds a foundation for long-term community health improvement.