Doctors decry increasing cases of mental health diseases in Nigeria

Doctors under the aegis of the Society of Family Physicians of Nigeria had decried the increasing prevalence of mental health diseases being treated by them due to issues like insecurity, economic downturn and natural disasters being compounded by limited access to mental health services.

Chairman of the Society of Family Physicians of Nigeria, Oyo State, Dr Matthew Olawuyi, at a press briefing to mark the 2025 World Family Doctors Day with the theme “Building Mental Resilience in a Changing World”, said they had noticed an increase in the prevalence of cases of mental conditions, particularly anxiety disorders, depression, phobia, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

ALSO READ: 7 smart ways to retain clients for your business

Olawuyi, flanked at the briefing by other executive members of the association, including Dr Asifat Ijaduola, Dr Oluwatoyin Olalemi, and Dr Nkechi Iwuala, said the burden of mental illness in Nigeria is huge, and this situation is being further made worse by the stigma that surrounds mental health and the poor knowledge of the public about the causes and appropriate treatment of mental illnesses.

According to him, the belief that mental health diseases are caused by spiritual attacks and the first point of call when in need of treatment for mental health conditions must change.

He said that mental wellbeing is not about having a perfect environment, and therefore, effort must be made towards the betterment of the environment and society as well as building mental resilience.

Dr Olawuyi recommended that individuals must prioritise their health, avoid indiscriminate use of drugs, ensure every family has a family doctor and embrace a healthy lifestyle, which includes adequate rest, regular exercise and weight control.

“Mental health issues are a burning one because the prevalence of mental health diseases is increasing day by day; this is caused by changes in our environment and the world at large. We now have an increased prevalence of mental health diseases like anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and other stress-related disorders.

“The majority of the patients will pass through family medicine professionals, so we are well positioned to detect mental health disease on time. We can detect it on time, even before they begin to manifest the symptoms or those who are at risk. And that’s the reason why every family should have a family doctor.

“So, the government should have policies which will improve the welfare of the citizens; they should see to the improvement of the nation’s economy and provide basic infrastructures. Government agencies like the National Orientation Agency should intensify efforts on public awareness and campaigns to improve the attitude of the public towards mental health diseases.

“The government should invest more in health, improve health infrastructures, medical equipment and training of more mental health professionals and motivate healthcare practitioners adequately to stop the tide of japa syndrome,” he added.

Chairman of the Association of Private Medical Practitioners of Nigeria, Dr Olumuyiwa Ajanaku, represented by Dr Adeolu Ajala, stated that all doctors should have their own physician to take care of their mental health.

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE