Maseru, Jun. 15 – Mental health challenges are becoming an increasingly serious concern in Lesotho, driven by unemployment, substance abuse, family breakdowns, financial hardships and weakening social support systems, according to Mohlomi Hospital mental health specialist Dr. Thabo Mokhothu.
Speaking in an interview with LENA, Dr. Mokhothu said the annual observance provides an important opportunity to raise awareness, reduce stigma and encourage Basotho to seek professional help when experiencing mental health difficulties.
“Mental health has been neglected globally for a long time, and Lesotho is no exception. This awareness gives us a valuable opportunity to engage the public as national interest in mental health peaks,” he said.
Dr. Mokhothu noted that while mental health was once largely overlooked, significant progress has been made as the subject is now receiving attention at both community and national levels, including discussions in Parliament.
However, he warned that the country continues to face numerous social and economic pressures that negatively affect mental wellbeing.
“We are crippled as a nation by systemic challenges such as high unemployment, broken family structures, identity crises, debt, substance abuse, gambling, lack of social cohesion and parenting challenges,” he said.
He added that high rates of suicide, gender-based violence, homicide, corruption and other disturbing incidents are indicators of a society under significant strain.
According to Dr. Mokhothu, an estimated 20 percent of Lesotho’s population is living with a mental illness, with improved monitoring systems expected to identify even more cases.
At Mohlomi Hospital, depression and anxiety remain the most common conditions treated in outpatient services, while substance-induced psychosis is the leading cause of admission among male psychiatric patients. Bipolar disorder and psychotic illnesses are frequently diagnosed among female and elderly patients.
Dr. Mokhothu said cannabis-induced psychosis remains a major concern and highlighted the strong relationship between substance abuse and mental illness.
“Substance abuse can induce mental disorders, while people already living with mental health conditions often turn to substances as a coping mechanism. It is a two-way association,” he explained.
He urged Basotho to be alert to early warning signs of mental illness, including prolonged sadness, excessive anxiety, withdrawal from social activities, sudden mood changes, sleep disturbances, declining performance at work or school, poor personal hygiene and increased use of alcohol or drugs.
Dr. Mokhothu further noted that stigma continues to prevent many people from seeking treatment, often resulting in delayed diagnosis and poor treatment outcomes.
“People fear judgement and discrimination. We need stronger public awareness campaigns, better legislation and greater community support to ensure that those who need help can access it without fear,” he said.
He also expressed concern over the growing number of young people experiencing mental health challenges, attributing the trend largely to unemployment, academic pressure and uncertainty about future opportunities.
According to Dr. Mokhothu, families and communities play a critical role in supporting individuals living with mental illness through emotional support, treatment adherence and understanding that many behaviours associated with mental illness are symptoms of a medical condition.
He said mental health services remain available free of charge through public health facilities, with Mohlomi Hospital serving as the country’s referral psychiatric institution for complex cases.
Despite progress, Dr. Mokhothu identified inadequate funding, the absence of a modern psychiatric hospital and rehabilitation Centre, and a shortage of specialised mental health professionals as major challenges facing the sector.
He encouraged Basotho to protect their mental wellbeing through healthy lifestyles, strong social connections, stress management, and by seeking help early when symptoms persist or begin affecting daily life.
“Therapy is for everyone. It is designed to help us maintain good mental health before we become seriously ill. We encourage Basotho to visit their nearest health facility and seek assistance when they need it,” said Dr. Mokhothu.
He emphasised that seeking help is a sign of strength and that early intervention can significantly improve recovery and quality of life.
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