Culture soothes mental health challenges

With the rising cases of suicide and other mental health related challenges, Zomba district assistant social welfare officer Francis Futu has observed that active participation in cultural activities and traditional dances cushions stress. Speaking last Saturday during the commemoration of the 2026 Social Work Day at Thom Allan Village, Senior Chief Mwambo in Zomba, Futu stated that traditional dances heal stress. He highlighted that apart from conserving culture, the beating of drums, voice production and the shaking of bodies are therapeutic.

However, Futu advised against obsene and abusive messages. University of Malawi Social Work Society president Comfort Patrick said students on campus use dancing as a viable medium of communication. He said traditional dances offer holistic approach to stress management by combining physical activity, emotional expression and social interaction.

“The traditional dances we perform are embedded with messages of hope, healing and entertainment,” he said. Patrick observed that regular participation in traditional dance can significantly lower anxiety and depression, boost self-esteem and improve overall psychological balance. “Social workers are mandated to use different mediums of psychosocial support to reclaim stressed people,” he said.

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Positive Change Youth Organisation social worker and communications manager Angella Chimombo said traditional dances, which involve the elderly, have a positive impact on mental health. She said traditional dances help young people connect with their cultural identity while allowing elders to pass on valuable knowledge, traditions and life lessons. Chimombo added that traditional dances empower the youth by enhancing their confidence, teamwork and leadership skills.

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