Ouagadougou: The Association of Saint Therese of the Child Jesus (ASTEJ) urged people on Saturday to take mental health seriously, as ailments such as stress and depression are silent killers within communities. The Association organized a public conference on Saturday, May 31, 2025, in Ouagadougou on the theme: "Mental health, stress and depression."

According to Burkina Information Agency, this initiative aims to create a framework for exchanges between specialists and participants, in order to inform and equip them on mental health issues, emphasized the President of the Association, Wilson Max Gombr©. He noted that while actions are often taken to ensure good physical health, mental health remains a "reality that kills silently."

Mr. Gombr© highlighted that many individuals live with scars, pain, and unexpressed suffering, despite the availability of medical professionals capable of treating these ailments. He urged participants to become information relays to ensure mental health is more seriously addressed within society.

Wilson Max Gombr© spoke at the public conference co-sponsored by the Ministry of Humanitarian Action and National Solidarity and the Ministry of Health. Boureima de Salam Ou©draogo, a mission officer of the Ministry of Solidarity, underscored the urgency of addressing mental health issues, particularly for internally displaced persons amid the current security situation.

For Ou©draogo, addressing mental health and understanding stress and depression are crucial for better psychosocial care of those affected by trauma. He emphasized the need for psychosocial support for individuals who have experienced dramatic events and the importance of strengthening the knowledge of those who interact with these individuals.

The Association of Saint Therese of the Child Jesus (ASTEJ), established in 2024, focuses on the development of vulnerable people, aiming to create awareness and provide support for mental health issues within the community.