Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
IRELAND-BASED mental health nurse and author Cleo Raem is celebrating the successful launch of her book, ‘Diaries of a Mental Health Nurse’, in Dublin over the weekend.
The book reached number one on Amazon on its Irish-European category.
It draws on Raem’s more than 20 years of experience as a mental health nurse, seeks to shed light on the mental health challenges affecting people across the globe.
For Raem, the launch was not only a celebration of her literary achievement but also an opportunity to encourage open conversations around mental health and wellbeing.
Speaking to Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Raem described the Dublin launch as a deeply moving and memorable occasion.
“The Dublin launch of ‘Diaries of a Mental Health Nurse’ was a wonderful and very emotional occasion,” she said.
“I was particularly encouraged by the conversations the book generated about mental health, nursing and the realities faced by both patients and healthcare professionals.
“Seeing the book receive support after more than 20 years of working in mental health nursing was very special.
“Following the launch, the book also reached number one on Amazon in its Irish-European category, which was an unexpected and encouraging achievement.”
Raem revealed that there were plans to launch the book in Zimbabwe.
“Zimbabwe is very important to me, and I definitely want to take ‘Diaries of a Mental Health Nurse’ home.
“I am currently looking at the best timing.
“For the book to have an impact, I would want to partner with an organisation, ministry or individuals who can help make a difference.
“I will be getting in touch with the relevant people and, hopefully, something will come of it.
“After the wonderful reception I received in Zimbabwe when I launched ‘Under Foreign Skies: A Mother’s Story of Survival’, I would be delighted to return with this book because the subject of mental health is particularly important to our communities.”
She added:
“The Dublin launch is only the beginning. My next focus is getting the book into the hands of more nurses, student nurses, universities, libraries and organisations working in mental health.
“I also want to continue speaking publicly about mental health, stigma, the nursing profession and the importance of listening to the experiences of those receiving care.
“I am exploring opportunities in Zimbabwe, the United Kingdom and other countries, while continuing with media interviews and discussions with organisations that share the same vision.
“As an author and mental health nurse, I want the book to become more than something people simply read; I hope it can encourage conversations, education and change.”
She also called for cooperation among Zimbabweans in addressing mental health issues.
“Zimbabweans can make an enormous contribution simply by talking openly about mental health.
“We need to move away from shame, silence and judgement and recognise that mental illness can affect anyone, regardless of age, education, profession or social background.
“Families should feel able to seek professional help early rather than hiding difficulties because of fear of what other people may say.
“Schools, workplaces, churches, community leaders and healthcare professionals can all help by creating safe spaces where people can speak without being labelled or rejected.”
She added:
“We also need to listen to people with lived experience and support organisations and professionals already working in this area.
“My contribution through ‘Diaries of a Mental Health Nurse’ is to use my experience to start conversations, but lasting change requires all of us.
“If one person reads the book, starts a conversation and looks at mental illness with greater understanding and compassion, then we are already moving in the right direction.”
