There are many ways for youth to contribute to economic development, and their involvement is essential to the future of the economy.

However, young people in Karibib feel that this opportunity is passing them by because of a lack of opportunities in the town.

Many young people are still struggling to find work, a situation that is worsened by a lack of other means of employment, such as self-employment.

A lack of economic opportunities largely influences the living standards of people and causes inequality in society.

The Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (nbc) is striving to prioritise mental health in the workplace.

One such intervention was the hosting of a wellness day at its headquarters on Cullinan Street.

The programme was packed with activities such as mental health talks and drama aimed at creating awareness among employees and different ways to create a healthier working environment.

nbc's Chief Human Resources Officer, Vezenga Kauraisa, urged employees to prioritise and look after their mental health.

The Deputy Minister of Health and Social Services says individuals grappling with mental health challenges are at a high risk of contemplating and attempting suicide.

Dr. Utjiua Muinjangue said this during the commemoration of World Mental Day held at Usakos under the theme "Mental health is a universal human right".

Many people globally experience mental illness or have at least one member of the family with a mental health condition.

These include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or untreated psychosis.

A recent spate of suicides in various regions of Namibia has raised concern and shed light on a pressing need for enhanced mental health support and awareness.

The weekend police report shows that multiple suicides occurred between the 6th and the 8th of this month, including a 13-year-old, prompting a call for action. The report indicates that these tragic incidents affected individuals of different ages and backgrounds, underscoring the pervasive nature of mental health challenges. 

679 cases of suicide have been reported in Namibia since last year, of which 82% were men.

The Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Kalumbi Shangula, stated that the suicide rate among men is high because men are discouraged from seeking help because they are often labelled as weak.

In a speech delivered on his behalf at the conference on mental health and psychosocial support for men at Oshakati, Health and Social Services Minister Dr. Shangula said mental health is one of the current public health crises globally.

In a deeply distressing incident that has reverberated throughout the Eenkundi-Okando village, a 37-year-old man who was struggling with mental health challenges died when he was engulfed by flames while being restrained to a bed.

This tragic event has drawn attention to the contentious practise of shackling individuals afflicted with mental disorders, particularly when their condition worsens.

Nepembe was born with a condition that tends to worsen when he consumes alcohol.

The management of Oshakati Intermediate Hospital in the Oshana Region is advocating for the establishment of a mental health hospital in Oshana to address the high volume of mental health patients who are currently being directed to Oshakati Intermediate Hospital on a daily basis.

They made the call during the visit of members of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Gender Equality, Social Development, and Family Affairs to the hospital.

Namibians are confronted with the tragic reality of suicide and mental health issues, particularly among the youth.

In response to this concern, the One Economy Foundation organised a Game Changers event to establish a secure environment for men and youth, fostering open discussions on the various factors that contribute to mental health challenges.

The event was characterised by different activities such as soccer, children's games, and physical exercise to raise awareness about mental health and suicide in the country.

Mental health activists have urged parents to create a safe environment for their children to feel comfortable enough to speak up when they have problems.

Mental health activist Immagine Shikomba calls on parents to be more open-minded by accepting that mental health is real.

This advice comes in light of Mental Health Awareness Month, which aims to educate the public about mental health and stigma.

Some residents of Swakopmund took part in a walk-and-run event to heighten awareness of mental health and associated illnesses.

This year, mental health awareness is done under the theme "Making Mental Health and Well-Being for All a Global Priority." 

October has been declared as Mental Health Awareness Month, aimed at educating and raising awareness about mental health and reducing stigma and discrimination towards people with mental issues.