From Stress to Strength – Building Resilience in Youth

Students engaging in a group discussion for their
new mental health club.

May, Mental Health Awareness Month, serves as a critical reminder of a global crisis: suicide is
the fourth leading cause of death for individuals aged 15-29. These aren’t mere statistics, as they represent stolen futures and heartbroken families. It’s a silent cry echoing across communities, underscoring the urgent need for proactive mental health interventions, especially within schools. Establishing mental health clubs isn’t just beneficial—it’s a lifeline.

This urgency fueled our dedicated team to transform awareness into action. On May 29 and 30 , 2025, through the Achinyamata Ojaka Mental Health Outreach program, our team arrived at Katsekaminga Community Day Secondary School in Dedza. The school buzzed with energy as over 231 students eagerly engaged in discussions about well being, learning practical strategies to manage stress, build resilience, and understand their emotions.

The initiative’s impact extended beyond the initial outreach. Recognizing that sustainable change must originate from within, the team empowered 20 passionate students to
become Mental Health Ambassadors. These young leaders participated in a specialized workshop, gaining the skills to become peer mentors and establish a new mental health club at their school. This grassroots approach answers a “national cry” from young people, sowing the seeds for a healthier, more hopeful future, one empowered peer champion at a time.

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