FG urged to do more for women, girls battling mental health, trauma treatment

The Federal Government has been urged to do more for the mental health and trauma treatment of Nigerians especially women and girls to deepen the wellbeing of citizens in the country.

The Chief Executive Officer CEO/Founder, Abigail’s Foundation for Victims of Domestic Violence (AFVDV) Prophetess Mojisola Obasa, made the call at the Foundation’s launch of its Hybrid Trauma and Mental Health Conference which was held in Abuja during the weekend.

According to Obasa, the Foundation is pioneering a new era of psychological healing and community-based mental health education, drawing on decades of experience working with African and ethnic minority women in the United Kingdom.

Obasa, a trauma coach and a life business coach, stated that the online centre would be staffed by professional therapists and coaches from the United Kingdom (UK), many of who are of African descent, to provide culturally sensitive care to victims of domestic violence across Nigeria and Africa.

She said, “You only live once, your life is your own. Women should speak out and seek help before their health and dignity are destroyed.”

Obasa also announced plans to introduce mental health first aid training across key sectors, including hospitals, schools and faith-based communities as part of efforts to aid early detection and intervention in mental health crises.

She noted that the Abigail’s Foundation marks her return to Nigeria after 30 years driven by a spiritual commitment to bring healing and hope to women through advocacy, therapy and education.

Also speaking at the event, the Federal Commissioner representing Enugu State in the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Mrs Ginika Tor, called for immediate attention to the pressing issues of domestic violence and mental health challenges affecting women in particular and Nigerians in general.

While noting the importance of stable homes and emotional well-being in achieving productivity and national development, the FCC Commissioner recounted some personal experiences stating how emotional trauma, marital abuse and neglect can negatively affect individuals and impact their mental health.

“Peace in the home translates to functionality in society. I urged people, especially women, not to remain in abusive relationships out of fear or financial dependence. A living divorced woman is better than a dead married mother,” she said.

Tor also canvassed for emotional intelligence and self-control as key strategies for preserving mental health.

The highlight of the event was the launch of a book, “Faith, Culture and Domestic Violence Among Ethnic Minorities in the United Kingdom” written by Prophetess Mojisola Obasa.

READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE