Mental Health Awareness Week

Living with sickle cell isn’t just physical - it’s emotional too.

Pain, crises, suffering, the unpredictable nature of sickle cell, hospital stays, frequent appointments, lack of good treatment and understanding from clinicians, uncertainties, lack of awareness, the financial impact of living with a chronic condition, employment issues and more, can take a serious toll on mental health. 

Many people with sickle cell face anxiety, depression, loneliness and isolation, often without enough understanding or support, often suffering in silence. 

Psychological support is an important part of wholistic care.

This week, let’s remember:

• Check in on people beyond what you can see

• Listen without judgment

• Educate yourself about sickle cell

• Show compassion—it goes a long way