In Liberia, a leading cause of death among epilepsy patients is drowning caused by uncontrolled seizures while bathing or drawing water from a river. The clinical program is reinforced by teams of psychosocial workers and volunteers in the communities, promoting mental health services and supporting families in caring for patients. “We had to work differently to protect staff and patients because of the risks of COVID-19,” said Justine Hallard, MSF mental health project coordinator. After a nationwide lockdown, the government lifted a series of restrictions, and MSF-supported health facilities resumed in-person care for most mental health patients in July and August. Following up with patients who stopped treatment prematurely is an urgent priority for MSF’s mental health team.

Source: Front Page Africa October 07, 2020 04:52 UTC