Thelma Osatohanmwen
Following to need to raise awareness for mental health issues, Mental Health Experts have called on the Federal government to ensure that the mental health act is effectively implemented in Nigeria.
The World Health Organisation made a call on Tuesday, in commemoration of World Mental Health Day, with the theme ‘Mental health is a universal human right’.”
The organization revealed that existing mental health laws often do not adequately address issues of discrimination and human rights violations, particularly within mental health care.
“The Day provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide,” WHO said.
While speaking with news men, Ebere Okonkwo, a mental health expert emphasized the importance of government at the grassroot level. She tasked the government to develop beneficial economic policies to address the economic challenges faced by Nigerians.
“The government should help formulate good fiscal and economic policies in the country. Policies that will help alleviate the poverty burden on Nigerians. This is because poverty and financial insecurity constitute one of the major reasons why many Nigerians do not enjoy good mental health and general wellness.
“In the same vein, I’d like to advise that structures and systems should be appropriately set up to help cushion the immediate effects of some policies that are adopted in the country, as seen in the case of the removal of the fuel subsidy and how it affected a lot of Nigerians negatively irregardless of the possible good intentions behind its removal,” she emphasized
Also, an expert in public health from the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development, stated that the national mental health act in Nigeria holds great importance and requires successful implementation, while also emphasizing the need for government-led campaigns and educational initiatives to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and foster better understanding of mental health.
Alao urged Nigerians to spend quality time with their loved ones, exercise regularly to boost their mood and energy levels, seek professional help, and engage in therapy/counselling to learn valuable tools and techniques as part of ways mental health can be managed.