The World Health Organisation (WHO) has revealed that 20 million Nigerians, or 20% of the population, live with mental health conditions.
Dr. Azubike Aliche, Secretary of the Nigeria-American Institute for Mental Health, disclosed this during a mental health GAP Action training in Owerri, organised in partnership with the Centre for Social Awareness, Advocacy and Ethics (CSAAE).
Sponsored by Nigeria Mental Health Practitioners USA, the training aims to empower non-psychiatrists to identify and manage mental health symptoms.
According to News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Aliche described Nigeria’s depression rate as alarming, noting only 10% of affected persons have access to care.
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Rev. Sr. Josephine Nzeke said 25 health workers from five Imo council areas are being trained to deliver grassroots services.
Imo Health Commissioner Dr. Chioma Egu called for stronger implementation of mental health policies. Other speakers urged government support for training and facility upgrades.
“As Nigerians grapple with hardship and young people are subjected to information overload, it is part of our mission, through our C-Health program, to propagate mental health support at the grassroots.
CSAAE’s Francisca Ekwonu encouraged collaboration, highlighting their toll-free support line: 08009001000.
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