"I regained hope in life after psychiatric treatment!"
This is the story of Ertuban Biset, a 30-year-old from Nakuteleab Kebele, in Lasta Woreda, North Wolo Zone, Amhara Region. For nearly a decade, she faced severe mental health issues. She was happily married for nine years enjoying motherhood with her firstborn child. She recalled she was pregnant with her second child when her family found out about the ancestral connection she had with her husband. It was shocking to learn that the life she built was about to collapse.
The forced separation caused significant anxiety and depression, eventually leading to serious mental health issues. "I suffered from prolonged sadness, lost interest in daily activities, neglected my children, experienced dramatic weight loss, and withdrew from society," she recalled. For nine years, Ertuban slept for extended periods and felt hopeless about her future.
A turning point came when a community health facilitator from the SPIR II program identified her condition during a home visit. "At that time, I couldn’t communicate due to the severity of my illness," Ertuban explained. The facilitator gathered information from her parents and arranged transportation for her to St. Lalibela Hospital for a psychiatric assessment.
"Initially, I couldn't respond to the psychiatrists' questions," she admitted. Her family provided the necessary history, leading to a diagnosis of depression and anxiety. Ertuban was prescribed medication and scheduled for a follow-up appointment in a month. The community health facilitator ensured she took her medication regularly and arranged her return visit to the hospital.
"Gradually, over a year, I began to show significant improvement," Ertuban shared. By the time of her follow-up appointments, she could directly engage with the psychiatrists about her feelings and status. Beyond identifying her case and connecting her with the hospital, the SPIR II program supported her psychosocial recovery by providing her with a new home and essential living materials. "With continued support and regular check-ups, I made a remarkable recovery."
Today, Ertuban is thriving. "I sleep well, manage household chores, care for my two children, and lead a fulfilling life," she expressed with joy. "I even have a desire to continue my education beyond grade 10," she added, highlighting her renewed hope for the future. To date, the SPIR II program has supported 69 individuals, including 43 women, with critical mental health issues.