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Since 2016, the Friendship Bench program has been bringing hope and mental health support to communities across Malawi. What started as a small initiative in two facilities with twelve trained counsellors has now expanded to over 12 districts, reaching hundreds of clients each month.

As the world faces increasing crises, access to mental health care has never been more critical. The 2025 World Mental Health Day theme, “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” echoes the need for practical, community-based solutions. The Friendship Bench model, developed in Zimbabwe, now replicated globally, offers an evidence-based approach that brings hope and healing to people through simple, meaningful conversations led by trained community

On a recent episode of "Healing Through Stories," which aired just today, host Dixon Chibanda sat down with Tracy and Lata, to discuss how sharing their experiences transformed their lives. Their powerful conversation revealed a profound truth: we find strength not by fighting our battles alone, but by sharing them.

Mental health is a fundamental part of our overall well-being. As the demands of daily life continue to grow, so does the importance of...

World Happiness Report Highlights Friendship Bench as a Leading Cost-Effective Mental Health Intervention

“How ironic that we have been brought up to believe that we are poor, when actually everything we need is right here in our community”

In a world where millions silently battle anxiety, depression, and loneliness, community-driven solutions are more crucial than ever.