The mental health problem in Nigeria
I went to the mall a few days back to buy samosas. And as I stepped out of the car, I saw an unkempt young man in tattered clothes begging for alms. He was obviously mentally challenged. Although that was the first time I ever saw him, I couldn't shake off the feeling that with proper psychiatric evaluation and management, he might go on to live a good and dignified life.
Historically, mental health problems have been stigmatized and the sufferers are maltreated. But with advances in the medical field and research, the World health organization in 1948 redefined health to include mental well-being.
According to WHO, “ Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”.
Common mental health disorders in Nigeria are depression, bipolar disorder, dementia, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders. Nigeria ranks number one in Africa when accounting for depression and suicide.
These disorders can be caused by environmental stressors, genetics, drug addiction, and biochemical imbalances. But according to popular misconceptions in Nigeria, they are caused by a Lack of faith, spiritual warfare, and divine punishment for sins. And belief in these myths is not limited to the illiterate. Even the educated propagate them.
The sufferers are then socially ostracized because they are held responsible for their condition.
Although the situation is dire, people in different sectors are taking the pain to educate people. Using tools such as social media, radio, TV, and conferences.
You can play your part by lending an ear to friends and family with complaints, and by encouraging them to seek medical help.
Contribute positively to the conversation today. End mental health phobia.
