INTRODUCTION
In the midst of conflict and uncertainty, schools can serve as a beacon of hope and stability for young people. But for many students in conflict-affected communities, the challenges of war and displacement can take a devastating toll on their mental health. The numbers are staggering: according to the United Nations, over 75 million children worldwide are affected by conflict and displacement, with many experiencing anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Yet, amidst these challenges, there is hope. School mental health clubs are being established in conflict-affected communities around the world, providing a safe space for students to share their feelings, build resilience, and heal.
Lifafa Research Foundation buys this idea and her Mental Health Club initiative has been successfully implemented in 5 schools in the Southwest region of Cameroon, with the following statistics:

OUR KEY STATISTICS PER SCHOOL
Government Bilingual High School Tiko: 56 club members and 05 ambassadors.
Government Bilingual High School Mutengene: 47 club members and 05 ambassadors.
Government Bilingual High School Limbe: 98 club members and 06 ambassadors.
Government High School Bokwaongo-Buea: 48 club members and 08 ambassadors.
Bilingual Grammar School Molyko-Buea: 63 club members and 8 ambassadors.

ACTIVITIES
These 300 mental health club members, 27 ambassadors, have been working closely with 6 Guidance Counselors and our Clinical Psychologists with lived experiences to successfully carry out and benefit from the following:
Mental Health Awareness sessions.
Interactive in-classroom and outdoor workshops during club activities.
Creative expression through art, games, music, and writing.
Role-playing and group discussions to promote empathy and understanding.
Mental Health Screening for Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use and Suicide Ideation.
Free Counseling and career orientation.

Future Directions
As we move forward, the Lifafa Research Foundation is committed to:
1. Scaling up the initiative: Expanding the mental health club initiative to more schools in Cameroon and beyond.
2. Developing a comprehensive curriculum: Creating a standardized curriculum for mental health education in schools.
3. Training and capacity building: Providing training and capacity-building programs for teachers, counselors, and healthcare professionals.
4. Community engagement and outreach: Engaging with local communities, parents, and stakeholders to promote mental health awareness and support.
5. Research and evaluation: Conducting research and evaluation to assess the effectiveness of the initiative and identify areas for improvement.
6. Partnerships and collaborations: Collaborating with local and international organizations to leverage resources, expertise, and funding.
7. Advocacy and policy change: Advocating for policy changes and increased funding to support mental health initiatives in schools.

Conclusion
The Lifafa Research Foundation’s Mental Health Club initiative is a beacon of hope for students in conflict-affected communities. By providing a safe space for students to address their mental health needs, we are empowering them to build resilience, overcome adversity, and thrive.
As we look to the future, we are committed to scaling up this initiative, developing a comprehensive curriculum, and training a new generation of mental health leaders.
Join us in this critical work. Together, we can break down barriers, build bridges, and create a brighter future for all.
Let’s prioritize mental health in schools. Let’s empower students to thrive.
