*By Natalie Nyathi
In Africa, over 116 million people live with mental health conditions. The mental health landscape, particularly in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, is shaped by socio-economic factors, cultural views, and systemic challenges. Despite growing awareness, stigma often prevents individuals from seeking help. The region faces a shortage of mental health professionals, insufficient funding, and the repercussions of conflicts and public health crises, like COVID-19, which have exacerbated issues such as anxiety and depression.
Efforts are underway to integrate mental health services into primary healthcare and promote community-based solutions, alongside enhancing mental health education. However, substantial investments in infrastructure, training, and public awareness are essential for improving outcomes and fostering a supportive environment.
Ncazelo Ncube-Mlilo is a distinguished narrative therapist and psychosocial specialist based in Johannesburg, South Africa. With over 18 years of experience, she has worked extensively with children, youth, women, families, and communities, addressing issues like HIV/AIDS, poverty, and trauma. She holds a degree in Psychology from the University of Zimbabwe and a master’s in Narrative Therapy and Community Work from the University of Melbourne. Her work emphasizes culturally sensitive mental health interventions tailored to diverse communities.
Ncazelo’s methodologies acknowledge the collective nature of African societies, providing a culturally relevant framework for tackling mental health issues in the SADC region. Her Tree of Life (ToL) approach, which resonates with African cultural values, empowers communities to reconnect with their heritage and build resilience against trauma.
Inspired by the experiences of children affected by AIDS, the ToL methodology uses a tree metaphor to help individuals share their stories and strengths. It emphasizes cultural identity and community ties, allowing people to explore their roots and significant relationships. This approach, now utilized in over 60 countries, fosters emotional safety and encourages a strength-based perspective.
Ncazelo highlights extensive research supporting the ToL methodology, noting its success across various cultures. Her work illustrates the universal relevance of her culturally inspired practices.
Mental health challenges in the SADC region are complex, with high rates of disorders such as depression and anxiety often exacerbated by socio-economic factors. Cultural perspectives on mental health view it as a collective issue, with traditional healers playing a vital role in communities. Integrating traditional values with evidence-based practices, Ncazelo’s approach honors cultural heritage while addressing the diverse needs of communities.
She emphasizes the importance of community and shared cultural practices in healing, advocating for the use of communal support systems and cultural rituals in mental health work. Her Tree of Life methodology, co-created in 2006, empowers individuals to reconnect with their skills and relationships, fostering a sense of belonging and identity.
Ncazelo’s work has been recognized by various institutions, and she has trained numerous practitioners in her culturally sensitive methodologies. As the founder of PHOLA, a non-profit organization, she focuses on providing mental health services to those affected by trauma, violence, and abuse.
In conclusion, Ncazelo stresses the significance of community in healing. She advocates for a return to cultural values and support systems, emphasizing that healing lies within communities. By promoting kindness and care, individuals can collectively reduce trauma and foster resilience, as highlighted by Nelson Mandela’s belief that healing is in our hands.
She is a true daughter of the soil