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Showing posts from February, 2025

Self-Harm in East Africa: A Growing Concern Demanding Urgent Action

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The statistics are stark and deeply concerning. A recent 5-year study (2018-2022) conducted at Aga Khan University Hospital, Kenya, has shed light on the alarming prevalence of self-harm in East Africa, revealing trends that demand our immediate attention and concerted effort. The study highlighted some critical findings: Gender Disparity: A staggering 74.3% of self-harm cases involved women, indicating a significant gendered dimension to this issue. Mental Health Link: 88.2% of patients presented with depression, underscoring the strong correlation between mental health disorders and self-harm. Family Dynamics: 39.6% of cases were linked to family conflict, pointing to the crucial role of family support and healthy relationships. Methods and Access: Overdose (68.8%) and self-injury (56.3%) were the most common methods, and a worrying 72.9% of cases first appeared in emergency rooms, signaling a critical lack of early intervention. Barriers to Care: Mental health stigma and t...
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 Speaking to around 1,000 individuals about Intellectual Disabilities in Mwanza was both humbling and inspiring. The conversations we had during this unforgettable experience emphasized the crucial need for inclusion and stronger support systems for individuals living with intellectual disabilities. Did you know that approximately 1-3% of the global population—equating to as many as 200 million people—live with an intellectual disability? What is even more staggering is that this number is significantly higher in low-income countries, making the need for increased support, awareness, and understanding even more urgent. I'm incredibly grateful to everyone who shared their insights and perspectives throughout this event. It was a testament to the power of community and collaboration. The willingness to engage in open conversations about these challenges strengthens our collective knowledge and helps pave the way for creating a more inclusive society. A special thank you to Kyle E. Jo...