World Mental Health Day: Foundation kicks citizens against stressors

Webmark Empowerment Foundation has raised awareness about the critical impact of stressors on mental health and the proactive measures that can be taken to prevent mental health disorders. The foundation stated this during a virtual event held on Friday in Abuja in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Lugbe FHA Estate, Connect Her Network Foundation, […]

Webmark Empowerment Foundation has raised awareness about the critical impact of stressors on mental health and the proactive measures that can be taken to prevent mental health disorders.

The foundation stated this during a virtual event held on Friday in Abuja in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Lugbe FHA Estate, Connect Her Network Foundation, and Secure the Future International Initiative to commemorate the 2024 World Mental Health Day themed “Health at Work”.

The day is celebrated annually on Oct. 10, to raise awareness about mental health around the world and to mobilise efforts to support those experiencing mental health issues.

Dr Saadatu Adamu, a Mental Health rehabilitation professional highlighted the psychological effects of stress and its potential to lead to mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression.

“Mental health is how we think, feel and act. Stress is a silent epidemic that can manifest in various ways, affecting not just individuals but an entire society.

“By learning to identify stressors and implementing coping strategies, we can significantly reduce the risk of mental health disorders,” she stated.

Adamu also recommended some practical techniques for stress management, including mindfulness practices, physical exercise, and the importance of social support systems.

Also speaking, Dr Maha Michael Webmark Empowerment Foundation trustee member said that one in four Nigerians, approximately fifty million people, are suffering from some sort of mental illness according to the World Health Organization ( WHO).

Concerned about these statistics, he advised citizens to take their mental health more seriously especially with the pressure of prevailing economic challenges.

He also noted the growing concern over the mental health crisis exacerbated by various societal pressures, including economic instability, social isolation, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Michael added that recognising and addressing these stressors is essential for fostering a healthier society.

Amb Victoria Ojiah founder Connect Her Network, known for empowering women and girls, emphasised the unique challenges faced by marginalized groups.

“Women and girls are particularly susceptible to stressors related to societal expectations and economic pressures. It is crucial to provide them with the tools and resources to manage their mental health effectively,”she said.

Ojiah also highlighted the crucial role of mental health to overall wellbeing, saying that good health encompassed physical, mental, social, spiritual, and financial aspects; going beyond the mere absence of diseases or infirmity.

Mrs Alukwe Ugochinyere Program Coordinator of the Foundation reiterated their commitment to breaking the stigma associated with mental health disorders by bringing these issue to the forefront, to encourage individuals to seek help when needed and to support one another in their mental health journeys.