Mental Health in Nigeria: Suicide, the new normal?

Mental health in Nigeria:

A man jumps off the railings of the 3rd mainland bridge into the unforgiving waters beneath third mainland bridge. What makes him do that? A husband and his wife set fire to themselves and their property. What makes a couple fight to the death? Why would a man make the heart wrenching decision to save his ‘Okada business’ motorcycle even though the odds of losing his life in the process is great? Is saving his livelihood worth his life? The burden of Mental Health in Nigeria is great and as Nigerians will say – problems no de finish!

Hard life and its impact on Mental Health

Life is hard for much of the population, and Mental Health is a real challenge. Just a few decades ago, most Nigerians would tell you that depression and suicides were foreign diseases. Are these conditions that remote to us today? The burdens on our Mental Health are getting heavier – there is the high inflation and economic downturn to contend with, the high unemployment rates for the youths and even the middle-aged, the low esteem fueled by the mostly fake life displayed on social media giving rise to the trendy ‘God when’ phrase, and perhaps the heaviest burden that spares no one, the poor and the prosperous, is the pervasive fear and insecurity, the kidnappings and distressing ransom payments, leaving devastated lives and livelihood in its wake.

Do not judge

The videos and images from around the country tell a sad story of the Mental Health situation of Nigerians, the burdens we endure – and please don’t be too quick to judge fellow distressed citizens; Babatunde Fashola, current minister and past governor once said – “May your loyalty (to faith, family and society) never be (brutally) tested” – the words in brackets are mine.

Conclusion

We must build a more equal/egalitarian society that works for all. Nigerians, all hands must be on deck. We are not leaving the country to the career politicians alone, not this time! All of us must get involved – we are all leaders and team members in various ways. Finally, elect right candidates to the various elective offices, from councilor to president, all around the country, irrespective of party (if you must). Elect candidates or parties that buy into the idea of prioritizing Mental Health healing of Nigerians. Watch for empathy, communication and work ethics – these are key assets. To the rest of us – the rains are heavy, no doubt, and we are wet. But look right ahead, and feel the gently wind blowing, and the warmth of that beautiful sunrise in the horizon, surely it will be fine – just keep walking.