Advocacy for Mental Health & Rehabilitation Sierra Leone - AMHRe SL

13/06/2026

Shout out to my newest followers! Excited to have you onboard! Abdul D Bangura, Yusuf Koroma, Kargbo Mabinty

07/06/2026

Discharge Ceremony – Makeni Rehabilitation Center
6 June 2026 | Bombali District
Drug and substance abuse—particularly KUSH—continues to pose a serious public health challenge in Sierra Leone. In response, the Government of Sierra Leone declared the situation a public health emergency and established the National Task Force for Prevention, Control, and Treatment.
Today, the Makeni Rehabilitation Center at Teko Barracks successfully discharged 48 recovered clients, now referred to as “ambassadors” of recovery—comprising 43 males and 5 females. The event was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Health, National Public Health Agency, Ministry of Social Welfare, Office of National Security, RSLAF, Sierra Leone Police, Bombali District Council, a representative of the Paramount Chief of Bombali Shebora Chiefdom, civil society organizations, and parents.
Key messages from speakers included:
Recovery is achievable through comprehensive clinical care, mental health services, counseling, and structured rehabilitation. Discharge marks the beginning of recovery—not the end of care.
A coordinated, multi-sectoral approach is essential. Health, social welfare, security, and community actors must work together to effectively address KUSH.
Sustained follow-up and reintegration are critical. Relapse prevention, along with strong family and community support, underpins long-term recovery. Reducing stigma significantly improves outcomes.
The discharged ambassadors were encouraged to serve as role models and positively influence other young people struggling with drug use in their communities.
Preparations are underway for the next cohort to begin rehabilitation, reaffirming the National Task Force’s commitment to expanding rehabilitation and mental health services nationwide.
Recovered individuals and their families expressed gratitude to the Government of Sierra Leone for restoring lives and supporting community reintegration.
“Every individual who recovers strengthens a

31/05/2026

World No To***co Day – Advocacy Message
Today, the Government of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with its partners, joins the global community in commemorating World No To***co Day. This important day serves as a reminder of the serious health, social, and economic harms caused by to***co use.
At Advocacy for Mental Health and Rehabilitation Sierra Leone (AMHRe-SL), we emphasize the strong link between to***co use, mental health challenges, and substance dependence. To***co addiction not only increases the risk of non-communicable diseases but also worsens anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions—especially among young people and vulnerable populations.
We call on individuals, families, communities, and policymakers to take collective action by promoting to***co-free environments, supporting prevention and cessation programs, and protecting children and youth from to***co industry influence.
A to***co-free Sierra Leone is a critical step toward healthier minds, healthier bodies, and a stronger nation.
Together, let us choose health, well-being, and hope—today and always.

31/05/2026

I was honoured to serve as one of the facilitators at the AHF Sierra Leone, Girls Acts Initiative Sierra Leone National Conference, held at Wusum Hotel, Makeni.

During this important engagement, I had the opportunity to interact meaningfully with Young people and participants on mental health and psychosocial well-being, with a strong focus on drug addiction—its risks, prevention strategies, and the recovery process.

The discussions were open, reflective, and empowering, reinforcing the urgent need to create safe spaces where young people can speak freely, access accurate information, and receive the support they need to make healthy life choices.

Together, we reaffirmed our collective responsibility to promote mental wellness, prevent substance abuse, and strengthen pathways to recovery for a healthier and more resilient society.
thanks to the organizers for creating such platforms

22/05/2026

A new study has found that nearly 1.2 billion people worldwide had mental disorders in 2023, reflecting a 95.5% increase since 1990, with the largest increases in anxiety and depression. https://cnn.it/4tPj8lg

17/05/2026

Let Children Play. Let Them Grow.
Sports—especially football—help children build confidence, discipline, teamwork, and healthy bodies. When children are encouraged to play, they learn life skills that go far beyond the field.
To our parents and guardians:
Be patient. Be supportive. Be present.
Children thrive when they are guided with love, understanding, and encouragement—not pressure or fear.
A kind, understanding parent builds a confident child.
A confident child builds a stronger future.
Let us give our children the freedom to play, dream, and grow.

17/05/2026

17/05/2026

Mental Health Awareness Month – MAY.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to prioritize our minds just as much as our bodies.
Mental health affects everyone—our productivity, relationships, and overall quality of life. Yet stigma, silence, and lack of access continue to prevent many people from seeking help.
This month, let us:
Speak openly about mental health
Support those who are struggling
Promote self-care and healthy coping strategies
Advocate for accessible and inclusive mental health services
Remember: it is okay not to be okay, and it is okay to ask for help.
Together, we can build communities where mental health is understood, respected, and protected.
— Advocacy for Mental Health and Rehabilitation Sierra Leone

25/04/2026

Funeral Condolence Message
From Advocacy for Mental Health and Rehabilitation Sierra Leone
It is with deep sorrow and profound respect that Advocacy for Mental Health and Rehabilitation Sierra Leone extends its heartfelt condolences on the passing of Mr. James W. Mahar.
Mr. Mahar was a remarkable humanitarian whose life was defined by selfless service, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting the less privileged and marginalized. His sacrifices and dedication brought hope, dignity, and tangible support to countless individuals and communities. Through his actions, he embodied the true spirit of humanity and solidarity.
His legacy will endure in the lives he touched, the causes he championed, and the values he upheld. We honour his memory and remain inspired by his example to continue the work of advocacy, inclusion, and care for those most in need.
We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and all who were impacted by his extraordinary life. May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may his legacy continue to guide and strengthen our collective efforts.
With deepest condolences,
Advocacy for Mental Health and Rehabilitation Sierra Leone