Is Nigeria's mental health in a crisis?

Mental health issues have become a growing concern in Nigeria, with reports of suicides and a significant number of individuals experiencing anxiety and depression. Hauwa Abbas, founder of the Silver Lining Initiative, shed light on the situation in a recent interview with CNBC Africa. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 40 to 60 million Nigerians are considered mentally ill, with fewer than 10 percent having access to psychiatrists. The lack of mental health awareness, cultural stigmas, and limited resources contribute to the crisis at hand. Abbas emphasized the need for increased awareness, government funding, and more mental health professionals to address the pressing issue. With only 200 psychiatrists serving a population of over 170 million, there is a critical need for collective action to improve mental health care in Nigeria. Beyond economic challenges, the importance of a balanced lifestyle, early intervention, and addressing substance abuse were highlighted as key factors in promoting mental well-being. The road to addressing Nigeria's mental health crisis will require a multi-faceted approach, involving government support, community engagement, and individual responsibility.