As mental health challenges among young people continue to rise driven by stress, anxiety, and gaps in awareness Tanzanian youth are increasingly stepping forward to design and lead solutions to this growing societal concern.
Over the weekend, Tanzania Counseling Academy (TCA) in collaboration with Jamii Impact hosted the first edition of the Mental Health Gym Club, an inclusive learning and resilience-building program that provides a safe space for young people to meet, engage, learn, and access psychological first aid from trained peer psychologists and counsellors.
Program Objectives
The Mental Health Gym Club is designed to help young people:
- Build a deeper understanding of mental health concepts
- Identify the sources of stress and anxiety
- Receive initial emotional support through peer-to-peer interaction
- Strengthen personal resilience and learn practical tools for mental wellbeing
A Growing Challenge That Requires Collective Action
While the Government of Tanzania continues to invest in improving mental health services including the upcoming National Mental Health Strategic Plan (as referenced by Africa Academy for Public Health) the need for expanded support, awareness, and youth-driven interventions remains urgent.
Young people are disproportionately affected by mental health challenges, making their involvement essential in co-creating long-term solutions.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), stress and anxiety cost the global economy over USD 1 trillion annually due to reduced productivity. Treatment costs further burden families and national health systems. WHO emphasizes that:
“Mental health is not only a health issue; it is also an economic issue that threatens stability and development if left unaddressed.”
Through the partnership between TCA and Jamii Impact, the Mental Health Gym Club connects young people to psychologists, counsellors, and certified youth mental health trainers all of whom are young professionals. This peer-led model reduces stigma, increases trust, and empowers participants with knowledge and skills to address mental health issues before they escalate.
This initiative serves as a platform for:
- Developing emotional resilience
- Building peer support networks
- Expanding mental health literacy in a youth-friendly environment
The Mental Health Gym Club is scheduled to run every month, and as resources allow, TCA and Jamii Impact plan to expand the program to reach more young people across different regions and communities in Tanzania.
Together, we are building a generation that is informed, resilient, and equipped to face mental health challenges without fear or stigma.
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