Mental health experts in The Gambia want changes to suicide laws. They believe punishing people who try to kill themselves makes mental health problems worse. Many people fear asking for help because they might go to jail for two years or pay fines. The country still uses an old law called the Lunacy and Detention Act, which hurts people with mental illness. Recent workshops brought together groups who want these laws changed.
Mental health leader Mam Jarra Marega says negative views stop people from getting help. Groups like IVMHO work to spread knowledge about mental health across communities. They focus on rural areas where fewer services exist. Government officials have joined these talks about making new policies. The Gambia plans to create better mental health systems between 2025 and 2035.
Bakary Camara from Tanka Tanka argues that current laws deepen suffering instead of helping. Community education helps break down shame around mental health problems. Working together lets organizations reach more people who need support. Mental health nurse Amadou Jallow wants better teamwork between all groups. Experts believe removing criminal penalties would encourage more people to seek treatment when struggling.
Mental health leader Mam Jarra Marega says negative views stop people from getting help. Groups like IVMHO work to spread knowledge about mental health across communities. They focus on rural areas where fewer services exist. Government officials have joined these talks about making new policies. The Gambia plans to create better mental health systems between 2025 and 2035.
Bakary Camara from Tanka Tanka argues that current laws deepen suffering instead of helping. Community education helps break down shame around mental health problems. Working together lets organizations reach more people who need support. Mental health nurse Amadou Jallow wants better teamwork between all groups. Experts believe removing criminal penalties would encourage more people to seek treatment when struggling.
