A heated debate ensued in the 6th Children's Parliament over the lack of awareness regarding mental health among school learners. 

This discussion was sparked after Gerson Neumbo tabled a motion emphasising the significance of mental health wellness, emotional development, and psychosocial support for learners.

The motion brought to light pressing issues, including high suicide rates, elevated dropout and pregnancy rates, and a significant lack of awareness regarding mental wellness among children. 

The mover of the motion, Gerson Neumbo, emphasised that many mental health issues in children go undiagnosed due to insufficient awareness and limited resources dedicated to mental health in schools.

"The challenge is not that people do not know what mental health issues are; we are telling you that it is the lack of awareness in terms of understanding what these mental health issues actually are. Sometimes you are not born with this mental disorder; sometimes you get it through a cycle where a child is born or is living in a toxic environment. Obviously, this child will develop things like depression, anxiety, and insecurity."

Other members of parliament contributed to the proposed motion, which led to a heated debate.

Deputy Speaker Michael Ajiboso raised concerns about the behaviour among MPs, questioning whether such manners could contribute to mental breakdowns among individuals.

"You responded to him in a very aggressive manner, whereby you even pointed and raised your voice to him. How are you sure that you are not affecting his mental health? How are you sure that what you said and how you said it is not increasing his anxiety? How are you sure he is not going to engage anymore after how you responded to him?"