Every year, the month of May is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health. This is a topic that remains under-discussed, underfunded, and, sadly, still misunderstood in many parts of the world. In Nigeria, a country of over 200 million people, the conversation around mental health is gradually gaining traction, but there is still a long road ahead. Mental Health Awareness Month offers a timely opportunity to reflect on where we are as a nation, and more importantly, what still needs to be done to ensure mental well-being for all.
The Weight of Silence
In Nigeria, mental illness is often cloaked in silence and stigma. Cultural beliefs, religious
interpretations, and lack of awareness mean that those who suffer from mental health
challenges are frequently misunderstood. Terms like “madness” or “spiritual attack” are still casually thrown around, and rather than seeking professional help, families often resort to traditional healers or religious interventions.
But mental health is not a moral failing or a spiritual curse. It is a legitimate aspect of human health, just as vital as physical health. Depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder {PTSD}, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia are not signs of weakness; they are medical conditions that deserve proper care and attention.
According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 4 Nigerians will experience a mental health issue in their lifetime. Yet, Nigeria has fewer than 300 psychiatrists to serve the entire population, a staggering ratio of roughly 1 psychiatrist per 700,000 people. This figure highlights not just a shortage of professionals but a systemic neglect of mental health infrastructure.
The Youth Are Struggling
Nigeria’s youth, who make up a significant portion of the population, are increasingly
vulnerable to mental health challenges. Academic pressure, unemployment, insecurity, social media comparison, and financial uncertainty have all contributed to rising cases of anxiety and depression among young Nigerians.
In a society were opening up about emotions is often seen as a sign of weakness, many young people suffer in silence. Suicide rates are rising, and substance abuse is becoming a coping mechanism for some. The tragedy is not just in the suffering, but in the silence that surrounds it.
Mental Health Awareness Month is a call to break that silence, to let young people know that it’s okay not to be okay, and more importantly, that help is available.
Policy and Progress
There is some progress to acknowledge. In January 2023, Nigeria signed into law the Mental Health Act, replacing the outdated Lunacy Act of 1958. The new law is a step in the right direction, promoting mental health services, protecting the rights of people with mental illnesses, and integrating mental health care into the general healthcare system.
However, legislation alone is not enough. Implementation is key. Without adequate funding, training of health professionals, and public awareness campaigns, the law will remain little more than ink on paper.
Mental Health Awareness Month should therefore serve as a reminder to the Nigerian
government and stakeholders to invest more in mental health infrastructure, support services, and public education. Schools, workplaces, and communities need access to trained counselors and mental health first aid.
Key Statistics and Findings
Prevalence of Mental Illness: An estimated 60 million Nigerians suffer from mental health
disorders, yet only a small fraction receives adequate treatment.
According to WHO estimates, Nigeria allocates less than 1% of its health budget to mental health care. This makes it difficult to develop sustainable mental health programs or provide adequate treatment.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
Groups like the Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (MANI) are playing an important role in
addressing the growing mental health crisis in Nigeria. MANI has raised mental health
awareness through social media campaigns, community outreach, and school-based programs.
MANI aims to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental illness and promote early intervention. They also offer free counseling services and crisis support, making mental health care more accessible, especially for young people.
In a society where mental health issues are often misunderstood or ignored, MANI’s work has become a lifeline for many, creating safe spaces for individuals to talk openly about their struggles and seek help without fear of judgment.
Other organizations are also stepping up to fill the gaps in Nigeria’s severely underfunded and understaffed mental health sector.
She Writes Woman is also another notable example. Founded by a mental health advocate and survivor, this organization focuses on giving voice to women with mental health challenges and offers a mental health helpline and storytelling platform to encourage healing through shared experiences.
The Asido Foundation is another impactful group that is working on mental health advocacy, policy reform, and capacity-building for health professionals.
Similarly, initiatives like the Neem Foundation provide trauma counseling, particularly in
conflict-affected areas such as the Northeast, where years of insurgency have left deep
psychological scars.
Collectively, these organizations are creating a grassroots movement to normalize mental
health conversations and improve care access across the country.
The Role of Faith and Community
Religion plays a powerful role in Nigerian society. Churches, mosques, and religious leaders are often the first point of contact for those struggling with emotional and psychological issues.
Rather than dismissing mental health concerns as spiritual attacks, faith leaders can play a constructive role by encouraging members of their congregations to seek professional help.
Community also matters. A society that listens without judgment, that supports rather than shames, and that encourages honest conversations can be a powerful force for healing. Families should be educated on how to recognize the signs of mental illness and how to offer support without stigma.
Simple Steps to Stronger Mental Health
Taking care of mental health involves intentional daily practices. Start by maintaining a
consistent sleep schedule and eating nutritious meals, as physical health strongly influences mental well-being. Exercise regularly to reduce stress and boost mood-enhancing chemicals like endorphins.
Practice mindfulness or meditation to stay grounded and manage anxiety. Stay connected with supportive friends and family, as social connection is a key protective factor. Limit time on social media to avoid comparison and information overload. Set boundaries to protect your energy, and don’t be afraid to say no when needed. Journaling can help process emotions and identify patterns in thoughts or behaviour.
Seek professional help if feelings of sadness, anxiety, or overwhelm persist. Therapy and
counseling are proactive ways to build coping skills. Lastly, engage in hobbies and activities that bring joy and a sense of purpose, your mental health is worth the time and care.
What You Can Do
Mental Health Awareness Month isn’t just for professionals or policymakers, it’s for everyone.
Here are some small but meaningful steps we can all take:
Start the conversation: Ask your friends and family how they’re really doing. Listen
without judgment.
Educate yourself: Learn about common mental health conditions and their symptoms.
Support mental health organizations: Volunteer your time or donate to nonprofits
working to expand access to mental health care in Nigeria.
Advocate for change: Use your voice on social media to raise awareness and push for better policies.
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Tags: #Health #Awareness #Stigma
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