Mental Health Crisis In Nigeria: WHO Report Reveals About 20 Million Live With Mental Conditions.
A staggering 20 million Nigerians, representing 20% of the nation’s population, are living with mental health conditions, according to a recent World Health Organisation (WHO) report. The alarming statistic was highlighted by Dr Azubike Aliche, Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the Nigeria-American Institute for Mental Health (NAIMH), during a mental health GAP Action training programme in Owerri on Tuesday.
The four-day training, organised by NAIMH in collaboration with the Centre for Social Awareness, Advocacy and Ethics (CSAAE), is funded by the Nigeria Mental Health Practitioners (NMHP) USA Incorporated. It aims to equip 25 non-psychiatric healthcare professionals from five council areas in Imo State with the skills to identify mental health symptoms and support those affected. The initiative, in its pilot phase, will enable trainees to deliver grassroots mental health services at community health centres.
Dr Aliche described Nigeria’s mental health burden as “alarming,” noting that the country reportedly has the highest rate of depression globally. He stressed the urgent need for action, stating, “Only 10% of people living with mental illness in Nigeria have access to care. This has to change.” He called for deliberate efforts to address the crisis and improve access to mental health services.
Rev. Sr Josephine Nzeke, an executive member of NMHP USA, explained that the training targets healthcare workers to bridge the gap in mental health support. “After this programme, these professionals will return to their communities to provide vital services,” she said.
Imo State’s Commissioner for Health, Dr Chioma Egu, described the mental health crisis as a “global challenge” and urged NAIMH to align with government policies to maximise impact. Meanwhile, Mr Justice Ulunta, a facilitator from the Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu, called for increased government investment in training mental health experts and equipping facilities.
Miss Francisca Ekwonu, Chief Operations Officer at CSAAE, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to tackling mental health challenges, particularly amidst economic hardship and information overload affecting young Nigerians. “Through our C-Health programme, we’re dedicated to providing mental health support at the grassroots,” she said, encouraging those in need to contact CSAAE’s toll-free line, 08009001000, for specialist support.
The training programme marks a significant step towards addressing Nigeria’s mental health crisis, fostering collaboration between NGOs, healthcare professionals, and government bodies to create a brighter future for those affected.