By Dr. Gbonjubola Abiri

About 15 years ago, my mother took a trip to Abeokuta, Ogun State to make enquiries about residency training from the Federal Neuropsychiatrist Hospital, Aro, on my behalf.

Unsure of how to arrive at her destination, she asked a passer-by for directions. The woman refusing to respond to her question answered: “God forbid I have anything to do with that place called Aro”.

Her response is a typical example of denial and stigma associated with mental health issues.
World over, mental health disorders have become an urgent public health issue. Nigeria as well as other Low and Middle income countries (LMIC’s) have particularly taken a hit. In Nigeria, it is estimated that over 60 million people are living with a mental health condition. Unfortunately, less than 10% receive any form of professional care.

With a population of 200 million people, Nigeria has less than 300 psychiatrists to the entire population, a significant percentage practising in the urban regions. Over the years, mental health issues were barely discussed as they were associated with ignorance, stigma and discrimination. The COVID-19 pandemic however changed that as mental health issues were at an all-time high with factors such as loneliness, increased isolation, uncertainty, suicide, as well as the economic strain.
The World Health Organisation, WHO, states that about 1 in every 8 people around the world lives with a mental disorder. In spite of the research, mental health issues remain undetected, undiagnosed, underrated and underfunded. Our socio-cultural and spiritual beliefs do not help matters as persons affected are labeled as mad and possessed. They often receive treatment from traditional homes where they are starved, beaten, chained and sometimes raped. Family members are often at a loss as to where to access care or cannot outrightly afford treatment.
While the weight of a mental health emergency is bearing upon us, real change doesn’t always start with big policies or massive funding. It begins with little actions in our homes, schools, religious places, workplaces, and within ourselves. We can start by:

• Starting the conversation to change the culture.
• Educating ourselves and loved ones about mental health.
• Fight stigma through public awareness campaigns in schools, religious settings and even workplaces.
• Make your own mental health a priority.
• Support mental health work in your community.
• Encourage people and guide them to seek help.
  We can all make a difference in our little corners.
  Remember there is no health without mental health.