Mental Illness and Stigma in December by Filemon Liyambo

 

Mental illness and stigma

Question: “The story December by Filemon Iiyambo shows how mental illness is misunderstood and stigmatized in society.” Discuss.

Answer:
In December by Filemon Iiyambo, the author confronts an issue that continues to trouble many African societies: mental illness. Through the life of December Shikongo, we see not only the devastating effects of psychological breakdown on the individual but also the collective failure of family and community to respond with compassion and understanding. December’s story is tragic not because she falls ill, but because the people around her interpret her illness in the wrong way and treat her as an outcast rather than as a patient in need of care.

At the beginning, December is portrayed as a bright and ambitious young woman. She excels in her studies and is even expected to proceed to a Teachers’ Training College. To her younger brother September, she is both a role model and a source of pride. However, this promising life takes a sudden turn when she begins to display signs of mental instability. She withdraws from others, talks to herself, and is ridiculed by her classmates. What should have attracted sympathy and urgent medical attention instead attracts shame and mockery, which is the first sign of stigma.

The family’s reaction deepens this misunderstanding. Their grandfather, Ezekiel Shikongo, insists that December has been bewitched. To him, the strange behaviour cannot be explained medically but only through witchcraft. In his worldview, this is not an illness but a curse. His refusal to consider any other explanation reflects the limitations of traditional beliefs when dealing with mental health. The chicken taboo he imposed on December after a childhood incident further reflects how superstition shapes her destiny. By silencing explanations and insisting “that is how things are,” Ezekiel prevents any logical intervention.

September, however, demonstrates a more modern and humane approach. When he returns from studying abroad, he visits his sister in the psychiatric ward. He patiently negotiates his way past hospital restrictions, with the help of Tshuuveni, in order to spend time with her. The gifts he brings — food, clothes, and puzzles — symbolize an attempt to restore her dignity and remind her of the normal life she once had. His love contrasts with society’s stigma. Yet, even he chooses silence when their grandfather dies, fearing that breaking the news would worsen her condition. His secrecy reflects how mental illness continues to be treated as something fragile, shameful, and best left unspoken.

In conclusion, December demonstrates how misunderstanding and stigma worsen the suffering of the mentally ill. December’s wasted potential is not solely the result of her condition but also of society’s inability to respond appropriately. By presenting both superstition and silence as obstacles, Iiyambo calls on us to view mental illness as a medical reality that requires compassion and openness.