Johanna Hipangelwa

People’s emotional health is known to be significantly impacted by unemployment for a long time. The Covid-19 pandemic’s effects are still being felt around the globe, and the problem has gained more attention than ever. 

The rate of unemployment has increased, which has contributed to a rise in mental health problems like depression and anxiety. 

The effects of unemployment on a person’s emotional health can be profound. For many people, losing their job or being unable to obtain work can be a traumatic experience that leaves them feeling hopeless and unworthy. A person is more likely to suffer from mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and stress the longer they are jobless. Additionally, studies have demonstrated that unemployment can increase the risk of drug abuse, suicide, and other detrimental health outcomes.

The lack of social support and connections is one of the primary causes of unemployment’s profound effects on mental health. In addition to being a source of income, work gives people a feeling of identity, belonging, and purpose. It can be challenging to bounce back from a loss of identity and self-worth brought on by losing an employment/ unable to find employment. In addition, social alienation and a lack of social support brought on by unemployment can make mental health problems worse.

The Namibian case 

The connection between mental health and unemployment is a widespread problem, and the situation in Namibia is no different. Namibia is a developing country in southern Africa with a population of roughly 2.54 million people. High jobless rates have been a problem for the nation, especially for women and young people. The Namibian Labour Force Survey reports that the country’s jobless rates are increasing drastically.  In Namibia, unemployment has had a significant effect on mental health. Feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, and depression can be brought on by a lack of employment prospects and unstable finances. In a culture where work is closely correlated to one’s sense of self-worth, unemployment can also result in social isolation, a loss of identity, and a lack of purpose.

Access to mental health services in Namibia is limited, particularly in rural areas. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Namibia statistics have shown a relatively low number of psychiatrist and psychologists well below the recommended minimum of one mental health worker per 10 000 people. This lack of access to mental health services can exacerbate mental health issues and make it difficult for those who are jobless to get the help they need.

Among the few steps that the Namibian government has taken to reduce the gap between the two prevalent social issues, included the Fifth National Development Plan (NDP5) which aimed to reduce unemployment to 24%. The NDP also includes a focus on mental health, with a goal of improving mental health services and reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues (Presidency of the Republic of Namibia, 2016). Although, the Namibian government has taken steps to address the issue of unemployment and mental health, the gap remains wide.

Addressing the issue

Addressing the relationship between mental health and unemployment requires a multifaceted approach. One of the most important steps is to provide access to mental health services and support for those who have lost their jobs/unable to find employment. This can include providing free or low-cost counseling services, as well as resources for job training and placement.

Additionally, policies that support job creation and economic growth can help reduce unemployment rates and improve mental health outcomes. Investing in infrastructure projects and promoting the growth of small businesses can help create new job opportunities and reduce the overall impact of unemployment on mental health.

Finally, reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues can help individuals feel more comfortable seeking help when they need it. This can include promoting mental health awareness campaigns and destigmatizing mental health issues in the workplace. By working together to address this issue, we can improve mental health outcomes for those who have lost their jobs/ unable to find jobs and create a more resilient and supportive society.

*Johanna Hipangelwa is a final year Political Science student and founder of a mental health NGO (Speak Up While You Can).

Johannahipangelwa01@gmail.com