World Mental Health Day - Crisis in Africa's Largest Refugee Camp

Doctors Without Borders runs a mental health clinic as part of its 100-bed hospital in Dagahaley camp, one of three that make up the Dadaab refugee complex. The clinic provides medical treatment for patients with various mental illnesses, including depression, schizophrenia, personality and anxiety disorders. A fatal mix of pent-up despair, anxiety and fear, combined with new uncertainties brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, is forcing refugees to take extreme measures. MSF is reportedly witnessing a dramatic deterioration in the mental health of camp residents. The number of attempted suicides is rising, and psychosocial consultations have jumped by more than 50% from 2019. In the last two months, five people have reportedly attempted suicide in the camp, two with fatal results, according to Doctors Without Borders.

InFocus

An MSF outreach staff holds a discussion with mothers in Dagahaley camp.

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