IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT IN ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH.

Article By: Marang Thuto-Gaborone

A lack of healthy family structures and limited community involvement continue to undermine the mental well-being of many adolescents across the country.

Speaking to Gabz FM News, Maipelo Phiase, Psychosocial Support Program Coordinator at Steppingstones International, said that poverty, chronic illness, ageing caregivers, and bereavement have left a growing number of school-going children in fragile and often fragmented family systems.

She stated that it has become common for adolescents to live without consistent adult support.  Forcing many young people to assume adult responsibilities such as heading households with little to no involvement from their communities.

Phiase also highlighted the role of the education system in safeguarding adolescent mental health. Further stressing the need for stronger institutional frameworks and better infrastructure within schools to promote well-being.