How To Improve Mental Health In Nigeria

Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, yet it is often neglected or stigmatized in many societies, including Nigeria. In recent years, awareness of mental health issues has been growing, but there is still much work to be done to ensure that individuals have access to adequate resources, care, and support. This blog post will explore practical ways to improve mental health in Nigeria, considering the unique challenges and cultural dynamics that affect mental health care in the country.

The State of Mental Health in Nigeria

Nigeria, with a population of over 200 million people, faces significant challenges in mental health care. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 20% of Nigerians suffer from mental illnesses, yet mental health services remain underfunded and underdeveloped. The Mental Health Act, signed into law in 2021, has provided a much-needed legal framework for the treatment of mental illnesses, but challenges persist in terms of infrastructure, public awareness, and access to care.

Social stigma, limited resources, and lack of mental health professionals contribute to the barriers preventing individuals from seeking help. Furthermore, cultural attitudes often lead to the misunderstanding or dismissal of mental health issues. Many people still believe that mental health disorders are spiritual problems or results of personal weakness, leading to delayed treatment and reliance on unproven remedies.

Given these challenges, improving mental health in Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach involving education, access to care, and community-based support.

1. Raising Awareness and Reducing Stigma

One of the primary challenges to improving mental health in Nigeria is the stigma surrounding mental illnesses. Many people still see mental health issues as a source of shame, and this can prevent individuals from seeking help or discussing their struggles openly.

How to Reduce Stigma:

• Public Education Campaigns: Public health organizations, NGOs, and government bodies should launch awareness campaigns to educate the public about mental health. These campaigns should focus on dispelling myths, explaining common mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia, and encouraging people to seek professional help.

• Incorporating Mental Health Education in Schools: Mental health education should be integrated into Nigeria’s school curriculum. Teaching students from a young age about the importance of mental well-being, how to identify signs of distress, and where to seek help can foster a more compassionate and informed society.

• Involvement of Religious and Community Leaders: In Nigeria, religious and community leaders hold significant influence. Engaging these leaders in mental health discussions can help bridge the gap between traditional beliefs and modern mental health care. They can be instrumental in encouraging their followers to seek help without feeling ashamed.

2. Improving Access to Mental Health Care

One of the most significant barriers to improving mental health in Nigeria is the lack of access to professional care. Nigeria has fewer than 300 psychiatrists for a population of over 200 million, according to the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA). Additionally, most mental health facilities are located in urban areas, leaving rural populations underserved.

Strategies to Improve Access:

• Telemedicine and Online Platforms: With the rise of digital technology, telemedicine offers an opportunity to bridge the gap between patients and mental health professionals. Platforms like Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (MANI) have begun offering online counseling services, making it easier for individuals to access care without leaving their homes.

• Training General Practitioners: Given the shortage of mental health specialists, it is essential to train general practitioners (GPs) in mental health care. GPs are often the first point of contact for patients, and with adequate training, they can provide basic mental health support and refer patients to specialists when necessary.

• Mobile Clinics: For rural areas, mobile clinics could provide a solution to the lack of mental health services. These clinics can visit different communities, offering counseling, medication, and other services on a rotating schedule.

• Subsidizing Mental Health Care: Many Nigerians cannot afford mental health services, especially when it comes to long-term treatment. The government should consider subsidizing mental health care or integrating it into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to make it more accessible to the general population.

3. Promoting Mental Wellness in Everyday Life

Improving mental health isn’t just about treating disorders but also about promoting mental wellness in everyday life. Many lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on mental health, and they can be implemented at both the individual and community levels.

Strategies for Promoting Mental Wellness:

• Encouraging Physical Activity: Exercise is one of the most effective ways to improve mental health. Regular physical activity can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety while boosting overall mood and energy levels. Community-based fitness programs, sports, and even walking groups can help Nigerians stay physically and mentally healthy.

• Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, can help individuals manage stress, anxiety, and negative emotions. These practices should be promoted in workplaces, schools, and community centers as part of a holistic approach to mental well-being.

• Creating Supportive Environments: Family and social support play a crucial role in maintaining mental health. Fostering open conversations about mental health within families and communities can encourage people to seek help when needed. Peer support groups, where individuals can share their experiences and challenges in a non-judgmental setting, can also be highly beneficial.

4. Mental Health in the Workplace

Mental health challenges can significantly impact productivity and job performance. In Nigeria, where job stress, unemployment, and economic instability are common, promoting mental health in the workplace is essential for both employees and employers.

How to Promote Mental Health in the Workplace:

• Mental Health Days: Employers should recognize the importance of mental health by offering mental health days, where employees can take time off to rest and rejuvenate without using their vacation days.

• Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): EAPs provide confidential counseling services to employees dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Companies in Nigeria should consider partnering with mental health professionals to offer EAPs.

• Creating a Healthy Work Environment: A healthy work environment includes reasonable workloads, clear communication, and support systems for employees. Employers should provide training for managers on how to recognize signs of mental distress and offer appropriate support.

5. The Role of Government and Policy

Improving mental health in Nigeria will require significant government involvement, particularly in terms of policy, funding, and regulation.

Recommendations for Government Action:

• Increase Mental Health Funding: The government should allocate more funds to mental health care, ensuring that hospitals are well-equipped, professionals are adequately trained, and services are made accessible to all citizens.

• Implementation of the Mental Health Act: The Mental Health Act, passed in 2021, should be fully implemented to ensure that mental health care is regulated and that patients' rights are protected. This includes improving facilities, monitoring treatment practices, and providing legal protection against discrimination.

• Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration between the government and private sector can help provide mental health services to underserved communities. NGOs and private organizations can play a crucial role in supplementing government efforts by offering resources, training, and advocacy.

Conclusion

Improving mental health in Nigeria requires a concerted effort from individuals, communities, and the government. By raising awareness, increasing access to care, promoting wellness, and implementing supportive policies, Nigeria can take significant strides toward addressing its mental health challenges. With proper education, infrastructure, and resources, the stigma surrounding mental health can be reduced, and individuals can receive the care they need to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.