FG must declare suicide attempt a medical emergency ― NMA

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has urged the Federal Government to declare suicide attempt as a medical emergency with a holistic approach to treatment.

The body also called for the development of a national policy on mental health, as a way of finding a lasting solution to the alarming suicide rate in the country.

This was contained in a statement made available to newsmen by the association’s Public Relations Officer, Dr Abayomi Olajide, in Abeokuta, on Thursday, as the World celebrates Mental Health Day.

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He said the focus of the association was to promote mental health education awareness and advocacy against stigma.

Olajide who doubles as chairman, NMA National Committee on Mental Health urged the Federal Government to take a giant step by addressing mental health challenges of the people.

He also advocated for an enabling environment for mental well being and develop suicide prevention strategies that are affordable and achievable.

The association also urged the National Assembly to hasten the passage of the Mental Health Bill.