…blame trend on stigma, poverty, poor infrastructure

By Precious Owolabi, Ado-Ekiti

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Some medical professionals in the country have raised the alarm over growing rate of mental health challenges and increasing rate of suicide cases in the recent time.

They blamed the trend on low level of mental health care, dearth of infrastructure for mental health issues and worsening level of the nation’s economic situation.

 The Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Ekiti State Branch, Dr Oreyemi Ifedayo, raised alarm over the low level of mental health awareness in Nigeria, describing it as a major contributor to the persistent treatment gap for mental illnesses.

Speaking with The Hope on mental health awareness in Nigeria, Dr Ifedayo said it is crucial to address the issue, especially given the alarming rate at which people slump and die unexpectedly.

Citing data from the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr Ifedayo noted that mental health awareness among the general population ranges between 12–25%, and this figure could be even lower in Nigeria due to widespread poverty.

“The poor socio-economic status of many Nigerians limits their ability to access mental health education and care,” he stated.

He emphasised that stigma remains a significant barrier to mental health care, discouraging individuals from seeking help and adhering to treatment.

“Stigmatisation worsens mental health issues by reducing treatment-seeking behaviour, compliance, and ultimately affecting recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration into society,” he explained.

Ifedayo also decried the prevalence of harmful beliefs, even among educated Nigerians, who often attribute mental illnesses to spiritual causes such as demonic attacks or evil arrows.

He stressed that while there may be no single cause of mental illness, factors such as overwhelming stress and poor treatment adherence significantly increase vulnerability and the risk of relapse.

“Cultural practices have also contributed to misinformation. Some still believe that mental illness is contagious or incurable, which is completely false,” he said.

According to him, access to treatment remains extremely limited, with even urban centres struggling to provide adequate mental health services.

He highlighted the shortage of mental health professionals, high cost of treatment, and financial challenges faced by patients as major issues that lead to frequent relapses.

 Ifedayo called on the government to invest in training more mental health personnel, expand healthcare facilities, and restructure health education curricula to improve service delivery.

He also urged NGOs to intensify awareness campaigns and provide social support.

He added that religious institutions can play a vital role by using their platforms to educate the public, reduce stigma, and support affected individuals both financially and emotionally.

“Prompt treatment, stress reduction, improved socioeconomic support, and community-based mental health education can significantly reduce the burden of mental illness in our society,” he concluded.

Also, the Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Ekiti State Chapter, Pharm. Martins Alutundu, expressed concern over the alarming lack of awareness surrounding mental health issues in Nigeria, stating that cultural misconceptions and inadequate healthcare infrastructure continue to hinder progress in mental health care.

He noted that mental health is closely linked to physical well-being, pointing out that many mental disorders manifest physically through symptoms such as weight loss, fatigue, nutrient deficiencies, and sleep disturbances.

“Chronic stress, for instance, has been scientifically linked to cardiovascular diseases and other major health conditions that could lead to sudden death,” he added.

He highlighted the acute shortage of mental health professionals in the country, revealing that Nigeria has only about 250 psychiatrists to serve a population of over 200 million people.

He emphasised the role of professional health groups such as the PSN in public education campaigns, particularly in combating drug and substance abuse among youth, a known precursor to mental illness.

He also advocated for the integration of mental health education into school curricula and primary healthcare services.

Pharm. Alutundu urged religious and community leaders to collaborate with the government and health experts in raising awareness and reducing stigma.

Furthermore, a mental health doctor, Aladetuyi Temitope, expressed concerns over the low level of mental health awareness in the country, citing cultural beliefs, stigma, and limited access to services as major barriers to effective treatment.

Economic hardship is also a contributing factor, with financial stress increasing the likelihood of mental health issues.

While urban areas offer relatively better access to mental health services, rural communities remain underserved, he noted.

Although mental health services are available, affordability remains a challenge due to factors such as prolonged hospital stays and limited support systems.

He emphasised the importance of government involvement, calling for increased investment in mental health infrastructure and public education.

“The role of NGOs cannot be overemphasised, and the government should collaborate more closely with them,” he said.