Mental health, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), is “a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.” Unfortunately, the state of mental health in Nigeria is alarming. Research by Erubami Joshua, Bebenimibo, et al. (2023) indicates that approximately 40 to 60 million Nigerians suffer from various mental ailments. This figure aligns with the WHO’s estimate that around 20% of Nigerians—approximately 40 million people—are affected by mental illness (Coker Temitope, 2024).
In many African countries, particularly Nigeria, mental health issues are often misunderstood and underestimated, especially by the government. Dr. Toyin Ajao, in her 2022 submission titled “Normalising Mental Health Needs in Nigeria: A Wake-Up Call,” emphasized the critical neglect of mental healthcare since Nigeria’s independence. During her research for the African Women’s Development Fund’s Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing Knowledge Series in 2021, she uncovered a troubling reality: Nigeria has never implemented a comprehensive mental health act to address the needs of its citizens suffering from various mental health conditions.
Mental illness is frequently only recognized when individuals display extreme behaviours, such as wandering in torn clothes. This reactionary approach neglects prevention. Just as we prioritize regular physical health check-ups, mental health check-ups should also be essential. Many individuals who need treatment remain unaware of their conditions, leading to further deterioration.
Awareness of mental health must extend beyond visible signs of illness. Conditions like anxiety, depression, and stress are equally significant and should not be overlooked. For instance, many young adults experience anxiety about their future, compounded by societal pressures and economic challenges. If left unchecked, these issues can escalate into severe outcomes, including psychosis, suicide, addiction, or even death.
Dr. Kay Redfield Jamison, a prominent psychologist, reminds us, “We all build inner walls to protect our minds against madness, but sometimes we need to step outside them to understand and confront what lurks behind.” Her words serve as a powerful reminder that confronting mental health challenges early is crucial before they become unmanageable.
The economic realities in Nigeria and across Africa impose immense pressure on individuals’ mental well-being, particularly those struggling to meet societal expectations. Many people experience significant stress due to financial difficulties, contributing to a growing mental health crisis. The pressure to conform to societal standards often exacerbates these challenges. For example, young professionals frequently report feeling overwhelmed by the expectation to achieve success in a competitive job market.
So, what can we do? First, we must consistently check on our loved ones. While many may claim they are fine, we should ask more than once and be genuinely present. Sometimes, observing someone’s behaviour can reveal much more than words alone. Engaging in open conversations about mental health and encouraging those we care about to seek help when needed is essential. We should also create safe spaces where individuals feel comfortable discussing their mental health without stigma.
Additionally, it is crucial to protect our own mental health. We should set boundaries and distance ourselves from anything or anyone that drains our energy. In a world where mental health challenges are increasingly prevalent, prioritizing our psychological well-being must take precedence. Practicing mindfulness, engaging in regular physical activity, and seeking professional help when necessary are all effective strategies for maintaining mental health.
The Nigerian government should declare a state of emergency regarding mental health issues. More funding should be allocated to address these challenges, and training for mental health specialists should be prioritized to ensure adequate access to treatment for those in need. Implementing a comprehensive mental health act is a critical step toward addressing this ongoing crisis. Additionally, community awareness programmes that educate the public about mental health issues can foster understanding and reduce stigma.
On this World Mental Health Day, let’s make a collective effort to prioritize mental health—not only for ourselves but also for those around us. Together, we can foster a culture of understanding and support that transcends the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
* Chinedu Vincent Okoro is a Rotarian, educator, poet, and advocate for social change and mental health. He writes from Abuja, Nigeria.
