Growing mental health awareness in Nigeria, exacerbated by the global COVID-19 pandemic, has led to organizations like the Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (MANI) providing crucial support. One of MANI’s dedicated volunteers, Yewande Ojo, recently shared her experiences and insights into the organization’s impactful work.
Ojo, a psychology graduate from Obafemi Awolowo University, joined MANI in 2017 after recognizing the critical need for mental health support in the Nigerian society. “MANI’s mission to promote mental health awareness and provide support resonated deeply with me,” she explained.
At MANI, Ojo wears two hats: she serves as an in-house counsellor, providing direct support to individuals seeking help, and also oversees programming, organizing awareness campaigns, workshops, and support group sessions. Despite the heavy responsibilities, Ojo remains driven by her passion. “I love seeing others thrive,” she said. “There’s something incredibly fulfilling about helping someone navigate their mental health challenges and watching them grow.”
The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for mental health globally, and MANI had to adapt quickly. Ojo was instrumental in this transition, helping to shift services online and create specific programs addressing pandemic-related anxiety and depression. The organization also ran awareness campaigns about maintaining mental well-being during lockdowns.
One particularly impactful moment for Ojo came during the pandemic when MANI received a call from a frontline health worker struggling with burnout and anxiety. Through regular counselling sessions, they helped her develop coping strategies and connected her with peer support. Months later, the health worker said she had started a colleague support group. “It was a powerful reminder of the ripple effect our work can have,” Ojo reflected.
Despite progress the progress being made in this area, mental health stigma remains a significant challenge in many parts of Nigeria. MANI tackles this through education and open dialogue. Their programming includes community outreach to dispel myths about mental health, and they utilize social media platforms to share accurate information and personal stories, helping to normalize conversations about mental health.
Ojo’s message to the public: It is okay not to be alright, remember that there is no shame in seeking help. Our mental health should be prioritized as much as our physical health at all times. She encourages anyone struggling to contact friends, professionals, or organizations like MANI.
As mental health awareness continues to gain promience in Nigeria, volunteers like Yewande Ojo and organizations like MANI become increasingly vital. Efforts from such outfits provide immediate support to those in need and contribute to creating a more understanding and supportive society.
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