By: Shallon S. Gonlor |
shallonsgonlor@gmail.com
NIMBA COUNTY, Liberia — Scores of mental health patients in Nimba County have stormed the County Health Team with frustrations over the quality of mental health-care service delivery at government-run hospitals in the county.
Nimba County had a population of 621,841 as of the 2022 census, making it the second most populous county in Liberia. However, several individuals seeking treatment for mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders are met with significant challenges daily — citing inadequate care, a shortage of trained mental health clinicians, and a lack of essential psychotropic drugs.
The patients, (name not disclosed) are diverse, ranging from ordinary individuals to vulnerable groups like physically disadvantaged youths, commonly known as “Zogos” — many of whom have fallen prey to substance intake, which has exacerbated their mental health issues.
Liberia’s mental health landscape is a stark reflection of its tumultuous past. The 14-year civil war, which ended in 2003, and the 2014-2016 Ebola outbreak have left deep scars. However, mental health care remains woefully inadequate.
Patients said struggles and make efforts yet, to access quality care due to the limited capacity of health facilities, heightened by the scarcity of trained psychiatric mental health practitioners, and a critical shortage of supplies for psychotropic drugs, limiting the effectiveness of treatment.
Trained psychiatric health professionals play a vital role in diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health conditions and substance use disorders — providing comprehensive care, including prescribing medication and therapy, but their absence is deeply felt in Nimba County’s health system.
Historically, people believed mental health issues were caused by witchcraft, demonic possession, or spiritual curses, leading to harsh, often inhumane treatment at the hands of traditional healers.
These practices not only failed to address the underlying issues but also further stigmatized mental illness, driving it underground. The legacy of this approach still influences perceptions today, highlighting the need for education and awareness to shift attitudes towards mental health.
Patients said the lack of specialized care and support services in Nimba County’s health system means they are not getting the help they desperately need to restore their hopes and normal mental status.
Mental health concerns are widespread in Liberia, with estimates suggesting 1 in 5 people struggling with mild-to-moderate mental disorders. These numbers highlight the pressing need for accessible, quality mental health services to support those affected and help them cope with their experiences.
In Nimba County, the mental patients are making serious allegations against the Nimba County Health Team Administration — claiming neglect and selective treatment, further accusing the team of selling essential life-saving drugs and equipment meant for the community.
If true, these actions would severely compromise the already fragile healthcare system, putting countless lives at risk.
The Nimba County Health Team Administration, led by County Health Officer Dr. Ponnie Robertlee Dolo, has remained tight-lipped amidst the allegations. Despite repeated attempts by our correspondent, Dr. Dolo was unavailable for comment, leaving many questions unanswered.
Our Nimba County Correspondent is continuing to reach out to the esteemed authority, seeking clarification on the situation and the administration’s response to the allegations. The lack of comment from the Health Team Administration has only fueled the growing concerns and speculations among the public.
