• Victims give details of personal experience
• Health experts offer useful tips
By Ngozi Nwoke
Nigeria is faced with a growing concern over mental health issues that threaten life. This killer health condition, ranging from anxiety and depression to trauma and psychosis, has left many suffering in silence.
For 48-year-old Tonia Williams, a single lady with no child, the journey to seeking help for her mental health was a long and strenuous one. Life was a constant battle with anxiety and depression.
Her story is a heart-wrenching account of how she struggled to cope with the mental health condition that threatened to consume her.
In an encounter with Saturday Sun, William recounted how her ordeal began.
Her words: “I have been struggling with anxiety and depression for a long time. Growing up, I felt like I was living in a constant state of ‘what if?’ What if I fail?’ What if I’m not good enough?’ I had doubts of how my life would turn out because I grew up in an orphanage, not knowing my biological parents, siblings or relatives.”
As she entered adulthood, William’s anxiety and depression worsened. She became withdrawn, avoiding social events and often struggled to sleep. In all these, she never shared her experience with anyone, never spoke about what she was going through. “I felt like I was drowning in a sea of self-doubt. There were times when I felt like I was losing myself, like I was disappearing into the darkness.”
William’s story is a stark reminder that mental health affects millions of Nigerians, yet many suffer in silence due to stigma and lack of support.
But help eventually came. “I dealt with my mental crisis by speaking to some people I trusted and they greatly assisted me into thinking positively. I got the support I needed, I got a good job, Even though I’m not married or have a child at 48 years, I’m still grateful that I’m living a healthier and happy life,” William said in tears.
Her story is not unique. Many Nigerians struggle with mental health issues, but the stigma surrounding mental illness prevents them from seeking help.
For Mrs Adenike Abimbola, the pain of losing her 19-year-old son, Shadrack, to mental illness is still fresh. “My son was a bright and promising young man, but he struggled with depression and anxiety, but despite our best efforts, he took his own life,” she recounted in agony.
Abimbola’s story is another tragic reminder of the devastating consequences of untreated mental illness. I wish I had known more about mental health. I wish I had sought help earlier. Maybe then my son would still be alive today.
“Let us break the stigma surrounding mental illness. Let us render help and support for those struggling with mental health issues.”
Ibiso Marshall, a young Nigerian who battled mental health issues, also shared his inspiring story of overcoming the challenges of insomnia, loss of appetite, and frustration.
He revealed how he struggled to cope with mental health issues after he couldn’t gain admission into the university of his choice despite attempting for the fifth time. However, with the support of loved ones, he sought help and started therapy.
“It was like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. For the first time in my life, I felt like I could breathe,” Marshal said as recalled his first therapy session.
Despite facing stigma and isolation, he persevered, learning to be kind to himself and focus on the present moment.
One of the most significant challenges facing mental health care in Nigeria is the shortage of trained professionals.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Nigeria has only 150 registered psychiatrists serving a population of over 200 million people.
Additionally, the organisation reports that mental disorders contribute to approximately eight percent of the global health burden, impacting nearly 20 per cent of individuals with disabilities. This means that many Nigerians are forced to seek help from unqualified practitioners or traditional healers.
Another challenge is the cost of seeking mental health care. Many Nigerians cannot afford the cost of seeking help from mental health professionals, and the few facilities that exist are often underfunded and understaffed.
Psychologists have stressed that one of the most significant steps forward is the increasing awareness that mental breakdown is not the same as psychosis, which practically means madness. They also revealed that one in every five Nigerians experience mental health disorders every year.
Deborah Ihuaku, a clinical psychologist and consultant at the Hopeville Wellness Rehabilitation Centre in Agege, Lagos disclosed that mental health issues are more prevalent in Nigeria than one can imagine.
Quoting the World Health Organisation (WHO), Ihuaku said millions of Nigerians are struggling with conditions like depression, anxiety, frustration, and psychosis, with millions not knowing they are suffering from mental health issues.
“According to the WHO estimates, 7.1 per cent of the population suffers from depression, 4.8 per cent from anxiety disorders, and 1.1 per cent from psychosis.”
Ihuaku, however, noted that “these figures are underreported due to stigma and limited access to mental health services.
“Nigeria’s mental health crisis is further compounded by a significant shortage of specialists. The country has only about 250 psychiatrists and even fewer psychologists, social workers, and other mental health professionals.”
For Ogeh Bartholomew, a clinical psychologist with the Kaduna State Bureau for Substance Abuse, Prevention, and Treatment, the need to address stigma and increase public awareness is as serious as the illness and must not be taken lightly.
According to him, many people view mental health issues as beyond the natural and a punishment from God. To change this narrative, Bartholomew advocates increased public engagement and education on mental health issues.
Bartholomew also highlighted the various factors that can influence mental health, including substance abuse, stress, trauma, body image, relationships, neurotransmitters, and genetics. “Each person’s experience is unique, and understanding these factors can help create a sense of belonging for those with mental health challenges,” he said.
Olopade Wale Monsuru, another clinical psychologist, shared another expert perspective on mental health issues, highlighting the complexities of the human mind and the various factors that can influence mental well-being.
Monsuru admitted that mental health is affected by a multitude of factors, including substance abuse, stress, trauma, body image, relationships, neurotransmitters, and genetics. He emphasised the importance of understanding mental health, defining it as “a person’s cognition, behaviour, and emotional well-being.”
The clinical psychologist listed examples of mental health disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, dissociative disorder, and personality disorder. He noted that in some cases, individuals may be aware of their struggles but unable to seek help.
He also distinguished between mental health issues and psychosis, describing the latter as “a group of symptoms that affect the mind, where the individual has lost contact with reality.”
In addition to government efforts, Monsuru highlighted the role of private organisations, such as the Nigerian Association of Psychologists (NAP), in raising awareness and providing support for those struggling with mental health issues.
“People think that mental illness is a sign of weakness or a curse from God,” says Jessica Okorafor, a psychologist based in Lagos. “This stigma is fuelled by a lack of awareness and understanding of mental health issues.
“A mental breakdown is a temporary and treatable condition, whereas psychosis is a more severe and complex condition. By understanding the difference between these two conditions, we can reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help,” she stated.
Kevwe Uzezi, a renowned mental health expert in Lagos, shed more light on the often misunderstood concept of mental breakdown, emphasising the importance of compassion, understanding, and support.
According to Uzezi, mental breakdown, also known as mental health crisis or emotional breakdown is a state of intense emotional distress, often triggered by overwhelming stress, trauma, or significant life changes.
Uzezi emphasised the importance of seeking professional help, surrounding oneself with supportive loved ones, and taking time to rest and recharge.