World Mental Health Day: One In Five People Are Developing Mental Health Disorders – Psychiatrist
By Nura Bala Ajingi, Kano
World Mental Health Day initiated by the World Health Organisation WHO, is aimed to raise global awareness and mobilize action for mental health globally.
This year’s theme highlights the critical need to support the mental and psychosocial well-being of those affected by humanitarian emergencies—including conflicts, natural disasters, and public health crises.
Such events cause significant emotional distress, with one in five people developing a mental health condition.
Therefore, Providing mental health support during these times is life-saving as It equips individuals and communities with the resilience to cope, heal, and rebuild.
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A collaborative effort is essential. Hence, Governments, health providers, schools, and community groups must unite to ensure vulnerable populations receive necessary care. By investing in evidence-based and community-driven solutions, which can address immediate needs and foster long-term recovery.
This World Mental Health Day, we need to reaffirm our commitment to building a world where mental health is valued, protected, and accessible to all, especially in the face of adversity.
A psychiatrist consultant sheds light on causes, symptoms, preventive measures and medication on the disease.
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“Crises such as natural disasters, conflicts, and public health emergencies cause emotional distress, with one in five individuals experiencing a mental health condition.
“Supporting the mental well-being of individuals during such crises is not just important – it saves lives, gives people the strength to cope, the space to heal and to recover and rebuild not only as individuals but as communities.
“That’s why it is essential for everyone, including government officials, health and social care providers, school staff and community groups to come together.
Dr. Abdullahi KK a retired Deputy director at the department of psychiatrist in Aminu Kano Teaching hospital, explained that the causes are genetically inherent, accident, sickness related to attack mental health.
Dr. Abdullahi KK who narrated on medications process such as counselling, socialisation and diagnosed drugs said anyone can be a victim.
Similarly, a sociologist Dr. Idris Salisu Rogo pointed out behavioural causes of mental illness like drugs abuse, tress, anxiety, lack of contentment, lost of beloved ones, wealth, job, unable to sleep for atleast 8 hours among others.
By working hand in hand, we can ensure the most vulnerable have access to the support they need while protecting the well-being of everyone.
