On 28 March 2026, Healing Hearts Initiative(HHI) joined the community of Kibenga Cell, Ndera Sector, Gasabo District, Kigali City, for a community work (Umuganda) activity.
Following the community work, Healing Hearts Initiative(HHI) delivered a mental health awareness speech focused on introducing mental health, recognizing signs that someone may be struggling, accessing mental health services, and understanding the important role families play in supporting individuals throughout the recovery process.
The session brought together community members from different backgrounds, including young people and older adults. Participants actively engaged in the discussion and raised many important questions, reflecting the growing need for mental health education within communities.
A mother's question highlighted the importance of helping families recognize mental health challenges early and respond with understanding rather than judgment.
One question that deeply touched the Healing Hearts Initiative(HHI) team came from a mother whose 19-year-old daughter was showing symptoms that could be associated with depression. The mother had not recognized these signs and wanted to know whether her daughter was genuinely struggling or pretending to avoid going to school.
This highlighted the importance of equipping families with knowledge to recognize mental health challenges early and respond with understanding rather than judgment.
People Referred for Further Support
Following the session, Healing Hearts Initiative(HHI) referred 29 people to nearby hospitals for further mental health support.
