The « Village du Cerveau » raises awareness of neurodevelopmental disorders and mental health

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Extract from the article: The first edition of the Village du Cerveau in Lomé took place from 9 to 11 April in Lomé, providing a forum for discussion, information and awareness-raising on neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) and mental health issues. The initiative brought tog

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The first edition of the Village du Cerveau in Lomé took place from 9 to 11 April in Lomé, providing a forum for discussion, information and awareness-raising on neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) and mental health issues. The initiative brought together associations, professionals and families, at a time when these issues remain largely unknown to the general public.

Neurodevelopmental disorders encompass a range of conditions of neurobiological origin that appear in childhood, due to atypical brain development. They include, in particular, autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADHD), as well as so-called ‘dys’ disorders such as dyslexia, dysgraphia and dyscalculia.

The event brought together several associations of parents of autistic children, as well as organisations committed to supporting people living with mental health conditions. Through this gathering, the organisers aimed to promote a better understanding of these conditions and encourage collective awareness.

The proceedings featured several round-table discussions, providing an opportunity to address the main challenges associated with recognising and raising awareness of these conditions. The discussions focused in particular on autism, learning difficulties, epilepsy and depression. Participants highlighted persistent challenges, notably a lack of information, social stigma and shortcomings in the provision of appropriate care.

“It is essential to better inform the public to reduce prejudice and promote inclusion. A lack of understanding of these conditions contributes to the marginalisation of those affected and their families,” said Ms Adiel Lotri, a mental health occupational therapist.

The interactive sessions also facilitated dialogue between community organisations, parents and visitors. Discussions focused on strategies to improve the daily lives of children living with neurodevelopmental disorders, as well as those of people suffering from depression or other mental health conditions.

The focus was on the crucial role of the family unit, both as a vital source of support for those affected and as a group that itself requires support. Speakers also emphasised the importance of social inclusion and community engagement in promoting better integration.

The event concluded with an educational simulation performance, designed to illustrate the realities experienced by people with autism, absence epilepsy, learning difficulties and depression. This immersive performance aimed to enable the audience to ‘put themselves in the shoes’ of those affected.

Ms Adiel Lotri explains that this approach helps to better understand what these people experience on a daily basis. Thanks to the active participation of the audience, the performance helped to foster empathy and raise greater awareness of these often invisible issues.

At the conclusion of this first edition, the Village du Cerveau in Lomé stands out as a significant initiative in support of mental health promotion and social inclusion. The event helped to raise the profile of neurodevelopmental disorders and associated conditions, whilst highlighting the urgent need to step up awareness-raising and advocacy efforts.

The participants unanimously called for this type of initiative to be continued, believing it to be a key driver in building a more inclusive, better-informed society that is more attentive to mental health issues. Through this approach, those involved hope to help break down taboos and improve the quality of life for those affected, whilst fostering a better collective understanding of these realities.

William O.