Behavioural startups help people deal with difficult issues that may have affected them. They are a type of mental health startup necessary when a society has gone through a traumatic natural or manmade disaster.
Rwanda is an interesting country with many moving stories. It is not news that the country boasts of being one of the beautiful wonders of nature, both in cleanliness and wildlife. Sadly, the history of the 1994 genocide has left an indelible mark on the lives of Rwandans to this day.
The genocide marked a phase for fellow citizens, and it took no time for the subject of behavioural health to come into question in the country. The civil war brought about a need for behavioural health assistance in the country as many Rwandans suffered great PTSD from the incidents of murders, rape and ethnic rivalry.
According to research, about 23% of the Rwandan population suffers from serious mental health problems. 52% of that number become victims of the genocide. It is not surprising that the government has directed a huge portion of their health budget to tackling mental health issues. This move by the government is very noble and important. However, it is not enough to tackle the rising rate of behavioural health disorders in the country.
International communities and NGOs have shown interest in helping combat the mental health issues in Rwanda. Since government policy is focused on this need, they have been able to create opportunities for funding startups. These startups are interested in making mental health awareness possible and attainable. Below is a list of some of these mental health-friendly startups.
Kigali Psycho-Medical Center For Behavioural Health:
This private mental health clinic has a license from the Ministry of Health. As such, it prioritizes quality behavioural health resources for Rwandan citizens by working around the clock and conducting research on the best ways to improve their mental well-being. KPMC offers consultative sessions, a common way of getting into one’s mental space. It also offers psychotherapy, psychiatric services, and community outreach.
Nyarugene District Center:
This facility boasts many departments, one of which is mental health. They help contribute to the eradication of ill psychological health by collaborating with other health professionals and organizations in providing care for those with mental health problems. They look deeper and compare patients’ symptoms, help them understand their conditions, and proffer solutions and treatment options that would help their mental health improve.
Rwanda Psychological Society For Behavioural Health:
On August 1, 2015, a team of certified psychologists created this guild. These professionals are renowned in both individual and group therapy. Furthermore, they are invested in ensuring that the mental health of citizens is kept at an optimal level. They do this by providing clients with opportunities to examine their feelings, ideas, and conditions. Thankfully, they do this in a safe and comfortable environment while still offering tools and solutions that would boost mental soundness.
Ubizima Innovation Hub:
Thirty well-meaning founders started this innovation hub in July 2015. They prioritized the provision of care to girls and women with mental health issues. However, with time, it diversified, allowing all youths, regardless of gender, to have access to mental health care. They assist youths struggling with mental health issues by connecting them to qualified psychologists, counsellors and doctors. Consequently, these professionals help them identify and solve psychological issues that may be affecting them. These services are provided for free, too. Great, right?
Solid Minds Counseling Clinic For Behavioural Health:
Uwamahoro Ariane and Samuel Munderere started this privately owned clinic for behavioural health. Interestingly, it has a license from the Rwandan Ministry of Health to practice. Its focus is on inclusivity. It also pays attention to the mental health needs of its patients. They not only ensure quality provision of the best mental health care, but they also make sure these psychological services have empirical proof.
Furthermore, they provide these services to families, couples, and children. They also aid in the advancement of research in the area of mental health. They collaborate with international organizations, educational institutes, and private businesses to ensure the growth and sustainability of quality mental health care and foster capacity building, employee assistance, and student wellness programs.
Why Behavioural Health Must Be Taken Seriously
All these startups agree that mental health is important. It is also a priority. These startups understand the need for a sound mind. Thankfully, they have dedicated their resources to ensuring that they provide a space where the mind is allowed freedom to grow. This will give other aspects of human life a chance to be developed.
You can read more about mental health here.
