As this year’s World Mental Health Day is commemorated worldwide, a top Nigerian expert has expressed concerns over how the country’s ongoing economic problems are worsening mental health issues.
Dr. Sunday Amosun, who leads Research and Training at the Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Abeokuta, shared these concerns during an outreach event by the Olutunu Health and Human Development Initiative at Olomore Market in Abeokuta.
He explained that the tough financial situation in Nigeria is putting a lot of stress on people, leading to more mental health challenges.
“The economic challenge is real, and it’s a major cause of mental illness,” he said.
Amosun stressed the need for people to live within their means.
“It’s essential for people to manage their lives within their financial means.
“There’s no need to compare yourself with others; if you can’t afford private school for your children, enrol them in government schools. This is one way to reduce mental stress,” he advised.
The outreach event is part of activities for World Mental Health Day, celebrated every year on October 10.
Amosun stressed that mental health is crucial for overall well-being. “You can’t have good health without good mental health. Since we started recognising this day in 2013, awareness has grown a lot,” he noted.
Mental Health in the Workplace
This year’s theme, “Prioritising Mental Health at Work,” focuses on how mental health affects job performance.
Amosun explained that mental health issues can hurt productivity, urging employers to pay more attention to their employees’ mental well-being.
He pointed out that poor working conditions can lead to mental health problems, which then decrease productivity.
“There’s a strong relationship between work and health. Poor working conditions can lead to mental health problems, and in turn, mental health issues affect productivity.
That’s why this year’s theme is so important,” he said.
Amosun also urged employers to notice changes in their employees, like sleep problems or increased stress.
“If you see a subordinate struggling, even if they don’t say anything, observe their behaviour. Are they sleeping well? Are they dealing with stress?
“As a boss, are you the cause of their stress? Denying someone leave or help when it is within your power can exacerbate mental health problems,” he added.
He stressed that mental health and productivity are closely linked.
“If people are struggling mentally, it affects their work and the whole country suffers,” he warned.