Depression is real; let's take care of our mental health

It is not uncommon in this part of the world for parents to actually punish their children when they show signs of depression associating it with issues of indiscipline, and as a result, the poor child will be lashed or given some kind of punishment. We have had many suicide cases in the country and sadly some of the cases included children and young adults. We need to start looking into issues of mental health with the seriousness it deserves.

During the Gaborone City Council (GCC) full council meeting yesterday, the mayor reported that they have intensified their suicide-prevention campaigns through expanded outreach through health screening, and referral services across the five constituencies.