For years, 24-year-old Musa (not his real name) battled sleepless nights, persistent fear, and sudden mood swings. Living on the outskirts of Abuja, he dismissed his condition as stress until it began to affect his daily life and relationships. Like many Nigerians, Musa suffered in silence, uncertain of where to seek help and afraid of being labeled “mad.”
Mental health experts say Musa’s experience reflects a growing but often overlooked public health concern in Nigeria, where stigma, limited access to care, and poor awareness continue to hinder effective mental health support.
According to mental health practitioners, conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorder are increasingly common, particularly among young people facing economic hardship, unemployment, and social pressure. Despite this rise, Nigeria still has a severe shortage of mental health professionals, with few psychiatric facilities serving millions of citizens.
“Mental illness is not a spiritual failure or a sign of weakness,” said a mental health advocate in Abuja. “It is a medical condition, just like malaria or hypertension, and it deserves proper attention and treatment.”
Although awareness campaigns and social media conversations have helped reduce silence around mental health, many families still resort to isolation or spiritual interventions rather than professional care. This often delays diagnosis and worsens patients’ conditions.
In recent years, some public and private hospitals have begun integrating mental health services into general healthcare, making support more accessible. Non-governmental organizations and youth-led initiatives are also playing a role by offering counseling services, helplines, and community sensitization programs.
For Musa, a turning point came when a friend encouraged him to speak to a counselor. With professional support, he is now learning to manage his condition and rebuild his confidence.
“I wish I had spoken up earlier,” he said. “Getting help didn’t make me weak—it saved me.”
Mental health advocates stress the need for stronger government investment, community education, and policies that protect the rights and dignity of people living with mental health conditions.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic and social pressures, experts say prioritizing mental health is no longer optional but essential for national well-being. Breaking the culture of silence, they argue, could be the first step toward healing millions of unseen struggles.
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