‘Self-awareness key to mental health recovery’

Tendai Gukutikwa
Health Reporter
MENTAL health advocates have underscored the importance of self-awareness as the cornerstone of recovery and well-being, urging communities to foster open dialogue and dismantle the lingering stigma surrounding mental health.
The call to action was made during the Mental Health Summit, hosted by Psychotherapy Care and Counselling Services in the city last Friday.
The event brought together residents, mental health professionals, faith leaders, and community members to collectively address pressing challenges such as substance abuse, depression, stress, and inadequate support systems. Clinical psychologist and mental health advocate, Dr Mazvita Machinga, a lead presenter at the summit, emphasised that self-awareness is often overlooked, but remains a critical component for anyone embarking on the healing journey.
“Self-awareness is the crucial first step towards healing. It enables us to acknowledge our struggles honestly, confront them, and understand their impact on our daily lives. Without self-awareness, healing is hindered, as one cannot address issues they refuse to acknowledge. This is particularly pertinent in cases of substance abuse, where denial perpetuates the cycle. Addiction deceives individuals into believing everything is fine, even as their health, relationships, and opportunities deteriorate.
It distorts reality, trapping them in destructive patterns. However, the moment someone gains self-awareness, they shatter this illusion. Recognising and admitting the problem marks a breakthrough, opening the door to genuine recovery and lasting transformation,” explained Dr Machinga.
Dr Machinga stressed that individuals struggling with mental health issues often remain in denial for extended periods, hindering recovery. This phenomenon is particularly prevalent among those battling substance abuse.
“They continually seek dopamine stimulation, chasing the next high to escape pain or discomfort. During this process, they become trapped in denial, convincing themselves they remain in control. However, when addiction takes hold, it hijacks every aspect of life — the body, emotions, mind, and priorities — until intoxication becomes the sole focus.
Families, careers, and dreams are relegated to the background. This is why self-awareness is, not only important, but a crucial tool in breaking free and initiating the recovery journey,” said Dr Machinga.
The summit also underscored the importance of shattering the silence surrounding mental health and creating safe spaces where individuals can seek help without fear of judgment. She emphasised that communities, families, and faith institutions share a collective responsibility to foster openness and understanding around mental health.
“True healing begins when individuals feel safe enough to speak candidly about their struggles. Merely offering prayers or urging strength is insufficient. We must create environments where people can openly admit vulnerability without fear of judgment, rejection, or ridicule. Feeling safe to express vulnerability is the first step toward recovery, empowering individuals to seek necessary help,” she said, also highlighting the importance of early intervention, suggesting that self-awareness should be taught from a young age.
Dr Machinga also encouraged parents and schools to help children understand their emotions and mental states as a preventive measure.
“Teaching young people to acknowledge and reflect on their emotions is a highly effective way to mitigate future crises. When individuals grow up with the ability to openly express their feelings, they are better equipped to manage them instead of being controlled by them,” she said.
The summit also explored how stress, unemployment, poverty, and social isolation exacerbate mental health issues in communities.
Dr Machinga advocated for a holistic approach to mental health, emphasising that recovery and well-being require more than individual effort alone.
While personal responsibility is crucial, with individuals needing to recognise their struggles and actively participate in their healing journey, families play a vital role in providing consistent support, understanding, and encouragement. This creates an environment where those facing challenges feel safe and valued.
She also said systemic improvements in mental health care, including access to professional services, community programmes, and public awareness campaigns, are essential for achieving sustainable recovery outcomes.
She urged individuals to take small, practical steps toward self-awareness daily.
“Take time to pause, reflect, and ask yourself how you are really doing. This simple habit of checking in with oneself can open the door to healing, as the journey begins when we are brave enough to be honest with ourselves,” said Dr Machinga.