Mental health experts have advised Nigerians to prioritise mental health awareness and ensure the effective implementation of the Mental Health Act in the country.
This call was made at Mindsplace, a health-tech company in Lagos, during the celebration of World Mental Health Day, themed “Awakening Minds” by the World Health Organisation.
Founder and CEO of Mindsplace, Miss Eniola Bello, said the conference reflected a commitment to breaking down barriers to mental health resources and raising awareness about mental well-being.
She added that attendees would be inspired to take meaningful action in their personal lives, workplaces, and communities.
“We believe that everyone deserves access to the tools and resources necessary for cultivating mental health and well-being. “Awareness and education are key to de-stigmatising mental health issues and fostering a culture of openness and support.
By creating an environment that encourages action, we aim to empower attendees to become agents of change. The event seeks to provide a platform for exchanging ideas, best practices, and innovative wellness solutions focused on personal and professional growth, mental health awareness, and social impact.”
A mental health expert, Tolu Aderemi, talked about the importance of understanding mental health as more than the absence of illness.
“Mental health is a vital state of well-being that empowers individuals to realise their potential and cope with the stresses of daily life,” he stated.
Aderemi revealed that the WHO estimated that approximately 450 million people globally struggle with mental illness, and about 25 per cent of the population will face mental health challenges at some point in their lives.
The new Mental Health Act, signed into law on January 5, 2023, represents a significant reform in Nigeria’s mental health legal framework, aligning it with international guidelines
Aderemi noted that the Act ensures individuals with mental health challenges will not face discrimination, particularly in accessing healthcare, and stresses the protection of their human rights.
A healthcare consultant, Dr Bunmi Omoseyindemi, addressed the intersection of health and spirituality.
She said, “Spiritual health, which has become increasingly recognised, involves fulfillment, self-esteem, and a sense of connection to others,” he explained. “We need to consider this perspective in our understanding of health in Nigeria and Africa.”
The Group Director for Digital Transformation at ARM Holdings, Ina Alogwu, discussed the impact of digital transformation on mental health.
He described digital transformation as an ongoing process that can significantly affect mental health treatment through digital platforms.
Alogwu pointed out that social media while connecting individuals, could also lead to unhealthy obsessions with others’ lives.
“The content aggregation of social media often creates a cycle where individuals seek validation and status, leading to temporary highs that can result in feelings of depression,” he warned.