Liwu in mental health project

Moved by the increase in mental health cases, musician Liwu has embarked on a project that will see those with mental health challenges getting professional help. 

He is linking those struggling with mental health issues as well as addictions with counsellors and therapists so that they can be rehabilitated and lead a clean life.

The artist’s manager Dali Mizaya said as many youths as possible will be reached out through the programme.

“The addicts are doing a self assessment on alcohol and drug addiction. We are rallying some therapists and counsellors who are going to help and offer free therapy sessions,” said Mizaya.

So far, he said the professionals are attending to the requests being made.

He, however, called on companies to support the project with financial assistance as mental health services are costly.

“Therapy is not cheap and we would love if some organisations can jump in and help. If we can get that for a couple of sessions and a number of people, that would be better.

“There have been issues to do with mental health especially among the youths; hence, this initiative highlighting the problem and offering solutions,” said Mizaya.

The precursor to the project was a video on effects of addiction Liwu released last week which he did with another musician Cozizwa.

“We didn’t do the video so that it should be dope. We did it because we believe addiction of any kind, should not be the end of the story. When we start to accept that we have a problem, then we are one step closer to victory,” said Liwu.

Through his website, getalinafe.com, people are registering through a self-assessment test of addiction.

“You just answer a few questions and someone is going to get in touch with you. Go to the website and get the help you need. Tell somebody about it,” he said.