“When You Are Too Brilliant, You Are Closer to a Mental Disorder” – Dr Muchima

Minister of Health Elijah Muchima has highlighted a possible link between extreme intelligence and mental health challenges, urging the public to be mindful of their well being.

Speaking in Lusaka during the unveiling of the new Mental Health Council Board yesterday, Dr Muchima emphasized the importance of addressing mental health in Zambia. He noted that factors such as frustration, alcohol consumption, smoking, divorce, and lack of care can contribute to mental disorders.

“The Doctor here, Dr Kennedy Lishimpi, was telling me that when a person is too brilliant, there is a thin line with mental patience, so if you are too brilliant, know that you are closer to mental disorder,” Dr Muchima said. He added, “Check out the most brilliant people, they don’t live normal lives. I’m not saying you should live a dull life, but just be careful and cautious.”

Dr Muchima assured that the government would give special attention to mental health, which affects the nation’s peace and how families and communities live together. “There are several factors that contribute to mental health disorder, including divorce or lack of care. I have seen people die in hospitals because no one visits them even if they are not critically ill; they become frustrated and die,” he said.

The minister also raised concerns about the state of mental health facilities in the country, citing the dilapidated infrastructure at Chainama Hospital and the societal rejection faced by many mentally ill individuals. “We intend to establish care centers to provide proper support and meaningful activities for these individuals instead of leaving them on the streets,” he said.

Dr Muchima emphasized that mental health remains a critical component of the national health agenda and reiterated the government’s commitment to working with partners and experts to strengthen services nationwide. “Through unity and collaboration, we can achieve our goal of improving mental health care in Zambia,” he said.

Meanwhile, Sylvester Katontoka was appointed chairperson of the Mental Health Council Board, established under the Mental Health Act No. 6 of 2019. Dr Muchima explained that the board is responsible for reviewing policies, overseeing the implementation of mental health strategies, approving annual budgets and plans, and monitoring the performance of the National Mental Health Council.