Under the theme “Abundant life through Jesus Christ,” the consultation addressed the rapidly increasing prevalence of mental health illnesses, substance use and abuse, and substance use disorder among adolescents and young adults. The online event covered how mental health illness and substance use can increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections, vehicular fatalities, juvenile delinquency, and other physical and mental health problems. Without proper intervention, the burden of mental health challenges and drug and substance abuse presents a great barrier to achieving the desired quality of life Africa and the continent’s sustainable development. Without access to appropriate mental health services, young individuals may struggle to cope with their experiences and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Limited resources and infrastructure for mental health services in Africa create a significant barrier to access for young people in need. During the consultation, participants, many of them young people from member churches of the All Africa Conference of Churches, shared knowledge on best practices to addressing mental health challenges and drug and substance abuse among African young people. They also established a technical working group to develop a continental ecumenical program on promoting mental health and eliminating drug and substance abuse among African youth. Faith communities vital Dr Manoj Kurian, director of the World Council of Churches Commission of the Churches on Health and Healing, offered an introduction to mental health and wellbeing, explaining that a state of emotional wellbeing enables people to cope with life's stresses, realize their abilities, learn and work well, and contribute to their community. “People with mental health conditions are more likely to experience lower levels of mental wellbeing, but this is not always or necessarily the case,” he said. “Mental health conditions and psychosocial conditions can be associated with significant distress, impairment in functioning, or risk of self-harm.” Mental health issues affect more than 25% of all people sometime during their lives. Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death in individuals aged 15-29 years. Fourteen percent of the world's adolescents (ages 10–19 years) lived with a mental disorder in 2019. Seventy-one percent of those with psychosis worldwide do not receive mental health services. On average, countries dedicate less than 2% of their healthcare budgets to mental health. “Given the limited access to mental health care and professionals, it is vital that faith communities—which are present all over the world, with networks and support systems in place—can be mobilised to promote mental health,” said Kurian. “A complex interplay of individual, social, and structural stresses and vulnerabilities determines mental health, so faith which has potential to reduce vulnerabilities.” Kurian urged young people to invest in a spiritual life, practising spiritual disciplines. “Do something enjoyable and meaningful to you every day,” he said. “Practice stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.” Part of the solution is building health-promoting churches, said Kurian. “Surround yourself with friends and family who provide encouragement and understanding,” he said. “If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health issues, it's essential to seek help from a qualified professional—be it a therapist, counsellor, or pastor for support,” he said. “Treatment options may include therapy, medication, support groups creating an enabling environment, and lifestyle changes.” Stigma prevents individuals from seeking help, and can lead to discrimination and social exclusion, Kurian concluded. “It's essential to challenge stigma and promote understanding and acceptance,” he said. “Develop a community of hope that is aware, accountable, responsive, and supportive.” | 
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