Zimbabwe witnessed the launch of the National Association of Persons with Psychosocial Disabilities (NAPPD) recently with Mr Marange from the Federation of Disabled people in Zimbabwe as the guest speaker.
According to the NSW Government, “A psychosocial disability arises when someone with a mental health condition interacts with a social environment that presents barriers to their equality with others.” This ability may restrict a person’s capability to concentrate, be in certain environments, cope with time pressures and multiple tasks, manage stress, interact with others and understand constructive feedback. Also, past experiences of trauma are common for people with this disability.
Some of the examples of these disabilities include anxiety disorders, such as obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, agoraphobia and social phobia or mood disorders, such as major and dysthymic depression and bipolar as stated by the Disability Support Guide.
The NAPPD’s service to the Zimbabwean populace will help in the further acknowledgement, continued discourse and championing the address of mental health issues. The society is opening up more to discussions on mental health which were once sidelined and organisations like NAPPD are taking a centre stage.
An association that focuses on these disabilities will help in ensuring a healthy mind which boosts a person’s productivity and stimulates a healthy lifestyle.
