Mental health is just as essential as physical health. Normalizing the conversation about mental health empowers people to talk and get the help they need.
Editor: OLUSEYI ELIZABETH ODUDIMU
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Normalizing the conversation about mental health empowers people to talk and get the help they need.
Mental health is a public health challenge with a lack of in-depth understanding, noted institutional neglect, and general stigma in Nigeria.
The symptoms of mental illness can make life, living, and interacting with society very challenging for people living with mental illness, especially in the African community.
Widespread negative beliefs about mental illness in Nigeria are reflected in the following data, 96.5% of people assume that individuals with mental illness are dangerous, violent, and under a spiritual spell. 82.7% will avoid having direct contact with a mentally ill person, while only 16.9% would consider marrying one. Negative views about the mentally ill also result in discriminatory practices.
About 70% of Nigerians will experience a mental illness in their lifetime. Regardless, less than 80% of those with the experience of mental illness will seek treatment. However, poor knowledge and intolerant attitude toward people with mental illness are the associated factors preventing people from seeking medical support.
Research reveals that sharing mental health stories can provide hope, empowerment, connectivity, and gratitude and improve society’s attitude toward people living with mental illness.
If we can change the negative perception, the stigma will decrease.
Why it is important to share your story
- To provide an educational experience for someone who doesn’t understand mental illness
- To aid in combating stigma
- To reflect on your journey toward recovery
- To normalize the conversation about mental health
- To help others gain a better perspective and navigate through the journey
- To heal and help others heal
- To empower people to talk and get the help they need.
Your story is part of your life and not for exhibition or a piece of information.
To combat mental health stigma and encourage help-seeking attitudes, your story matter.
Have you experienced any kind of mental health condition? We like to hear from you.
Tell your powerful personal story to help others.
Share, Learn, and Heal.
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