Our Work
The Problem
Multiple Crises and Limited Mental Health Resources
Eswatini has the highest HIV rate in the world, with an HIV prevalence among adult at 27.3%, about 70% of the population is reported by the World Bank to be surviving under US$2 per day, rates of violence against women and children are alarmingly high.
Despite all these risk factors, the country has one psychiatric hospital with only one psychiatrist and one psychologist who are hired by government at the National Psychiatric Referral Hospital. They are expected to offer services to about 1.2 million people, while over fifty (50) psychology practitioners work in private practice.
Our Current Work
Supporting Rural Mental Health and a Mental Health Hotline
We are currently:
Conducting mental health workshops and promotional activities for rural health workers and communities.
Supporting a mental health hotline that provides counseling, screening, and referrals to the people of Eswatini.
Our Impact
Empowering Youth, People with Mental Health Issues, and the Wider Community
Since 2013, IMERSE has worked with youth, people with mental health issues, and the wider society in Eswatini.
Working in 11 high schools, IMERSE's "I Choose Life" peer education and counseling project trained teachers, students, and community members in identifying and addressing basic mental health issues among high school students and their immediate communities.
IMERSE's "Healing through Art" project empowered people with mental health issues and youth to safely share their experiences.
IMERSE has promoted basic mental health skills and knowledge by being featured in Eswatini's national newspapers, radio, television, and events.