Hardship: Psychologists warn of increasing mental health issues among Nigerians

Psychologists have raised alarm over the growing factors contributing to mental health challenges in Nigerian workplaces.

They spoke at a virtual meeting on Thursday in commemoration of this year’s World Mental Health.

DAILY POST reports that the meeting was organised by the North East Regional Coordinator of the Young African Leaders Initiative RLC Alumni Association, Nigeria, Dr Peter Ajanson.

A clinical psychologist, Dr Yetunde Awobode, who spoke at the meeting, urged employers to pay attention to the mental health of their employees.

Dr Awobode noted that many workers are experiencing mental health issues due to factors such as job insecurity, overwhelming workloads, inadequate pay, frequent role changes, lack of training, and harassment from supervisors.

She stated, “We need to prioritize mental health in the workplace, as healthy employees are productive employees. The workplace should be a supportive environment, not a source of anxiety. Unfortunately, we are seeing a rise in mental health cases directly linked to workplace stress.”

Similarly, Dr Tunde Masseyferguson Ojo, National Coordinator of the National Mental Health Programme in the Department of Public Health, also spoke on the need for accessible and quality mental health care as outlined in the National Mental Health Act.

He explained that harsh government policies contribute to mental health issues by adding financial and emotional strain on citizens.

“Nigerians are resilient, but we must be mindful of the mental health impacts of unfavourable economic policies.

Mental health matters affects us all.” he said.

Dr Ojo also discussed the stigmatization of mental health issues and urged people to prioritize their mental well-being.

He shared that mental health desks have been established in 18 states to support citizens, encouraging other states to follow suit.

In his closing remarks, Dr Ajanson advised workers to make the most of their time at work, as the majority of their productive hours are spent in their workplaces.