Mental Health in Nigeria
Suicide is never an option
Across Nigeria, too many young people are grappling with economic hardship, uncertainty about the future, and the crushing weight of societal expectations. For some, these struggles sadly push them to contemplate ending their lives. This is a heartbreaking reality that demands urgent action, empathy, and practical solutions.
Below are key ways the government, communities, and stakeholders can help prevent such tragedies:
1. Establish accessible mental health support: Increase funding for mental health services, specifically targeting young individuals. Make counselling, therapy, and helplines available, emphasizing the importance of seeking help and reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues.
2. Promote financial literacy and skills training: Initiate programs focused on equipping young people with financial management skills, entrepreneurship, and job training. This will help them explore alternative avenues for income generation and increase their employability in a challenging economic environment.
3. Create job opportunities and support startups: Develop policies and incentives that encourage businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, to create new job opportunities. The government can also offer financial assistance and guidance to young entrepreneurs or start-ups to foster innovation and economic growth.
4. Strengthen educational and vocational systems: Enhance the quality and accessibility of education and vocational training programs to provide young people with the necessary skills and qualifications to succeed in the job market. Additionally, ensure these programs align with the current and future workforce demands.
5. Increase social welfare support: Expand the social welfare system to provide a safety net for those facing economic hardship. Implement policies such as unemployment benefits, welfare programs, and affordable housing that address the specific needs of young people.
6. Foster community engagement and support networks: Establish community centers or safe spaces where young individuals can socialize, seek support, and connect with peers facing similar challenges. Encourage community organizations and NGOs to provide programs aimed at building resilience and a sense of belonging.
7. Collaboration with NGOs and non-profit organizations: Partner with NGOs and non-profit organizations that specialize in mental health, youth development, and poverty alleviation. These organizations often have valuable expertise, resources, and established networks that can contribute to addressing the issue effectively.
8. Raise public awareness: Launch campaigns to raise awareness about mental health issues, the available support systems, and the importance of seeking help. Encourage open discussions and education within schools, colleges, and universities to reduce the stigma around mental health problems.
9. Monitor and evaluate interventions: Regularly assess the effectiveness of implemented measures through data collection and analysis. This will help identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments to the strategies over time.
10. Prioritize long-term economic stability: Recognize the importance of creating a strong and stable economy that provides sufficient employment opportunities for young people. Implement policies that promote sustainable economic growth, job creation, and eradicate systemic barriers that hinder youth advancement.
It is crucial for the government to adopt a holistic approach toward addressing economic hardship and mental health issues among young individuals. Combining the above recommendations with targeted interventions and continuous evaluation will help forestall young people from taking such drastic measures.
