Bahass Foundation begins vocational training for mental health recovery in Wa

The Bahass Foundation has launched a vocational skills training program in Wa to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of people living with mental health conditions. Introduced to coincide with World Mental Health Day, the initiative provides residents with practical training in tailoring, smock dressmaking, and traditional weaving. This move aims to complement clinical treatments by equipping patients with the tools needed for financial independence and long-term recovery.

The foundation’s Chief Executive Officer, Ilyasu Yussif Baba, highlighted that clinical rehabilitation alone is often insufficient for lasting recovery. He noted that many patients face significant hurdles after treatment, including social stigma and a lack of employment opportunities, which frequently lead to relapses. By providing marketable skills, the program seeks to address the socio-economic factors that contribute to mental health challenges. Currently, the foundation’s facility houses 72 residents, and statistics provided by the CEO indicate that substance abuse accounts for approximately 80% of those admissions.

While the launch of the training program marks a significant step forward, the foundation continues to grapple with infrastructure limitations. During the event, which featured success stories from beneficiaries and expressions of support from various community organizations, Baba made an appeal for public and private assistance. A critical priority for the organization is the completion of a stalled dormitory project, which is necessary to accommodate the growing number of residents seeking help. Strengthening these facilities is seen as essential for providing a stable environment where residents can safely transition from intensive care to productive community life.