無國界醫生 Médecins Sans Frontières
4.1.1 Desktop Liberia

Africa

Liberia

In Liberia, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) runs a mental health and epilepsy programme and supports paediatric care in a Ministry of Health facility in the capital, Monrovia. Although health services are being progressively restored in Liberia, important gaps persist, notably in specialised paediatric care and mental health.

It is estimated that 10 per cent of people in Liberia suffer from a mild to moderate mental health disorder, and 3 per cent suffer from a severe disorder. Epilepsy is also widespread, as past studies have shown a prevalence between 2.8 and 4.9 per cent. People with these conditions often lack access to treatment and face social stigma that can lead to exclusion from schools or jobs.​

We support five health facilities in Montserrado County with diagnosis, treatment and essential medicines for people with mental health conditions and epilepsy. Our teams also supervise health workers in outpatient departments and make hospital referrals when necessary. In addition, we collaborate with psychosocial workers and volunteers to identify patients and work with families and communities to reduce social stigma.​