Opinions

The significance and effectiveness of psychotherapy in addressing mental health challenges amongst older adults in Nigeria

In Nigeria, mental health challenges among older adults have become a critical concern that demands our attention. Recent estimates suggest that over 50% of older Nigerians are grappling with various mental health issues, yet access to adequate care remains difficult. This hidden crisis is exacerbated by factors such as economic stress, post-retirement loneliness, diminished functional independence, increased healthcare demands, and poverty. These factors can lead to heightened tension, anxiety, and even the development of chronic diseases in the elderly population.

Unfortunately, in Nigeria, the concept of psychotherapy, a valuable tool in addressing mental health concerns, remains largely unfamiliar due to deficiencies in mental health services, limited financing, inadequate engagement of elders in mental health programs, and restricted accessibility to mental health providers and facilities. Psychotherapy encompasses a wide range of therapeutic approaches aimed at helping individuals, including the youth, married couples, and older adults, navigate the challenges of life, such as relationship issues, depression, anxiety, domestic violence, or grief. It revolves around effective communication between a therapist and their patient, which encourages a connection built on sincerity and empathy, where emotions and thoughts are explored and shared.

One key issue in Nigeria’s mental health landscape is that early pioneers of counseling and psychotherapy have often opted to remain in academia rather than establishing clinics or an environment for therapy. This reluctance is partly attributed to cultural barriers, including the common belief that mental illness is caused by supernatural forces, leading many to seek help primarily through spiritual and religious avenues, such as prayer, fasting, and prophecy. Moreover, the fear of stigmatization and discrimination within the society compels individuals and families to conceal their mental health issues and suffer in silence. The widespread misconception that those with mental health disorders are violent, incapable of self-care, or possess weak character leads to discrimination and further prevents them from seeking professional help.

It is vital to emphasize that psychotherapy and mental health support are not synonymous with insanity; they are intended to aid individuals dealing with a wide spectrum of emotional and mental health challenges. These services can empower older adults to cope with various stresses, regain control of their lives, and respond to adversity with healthier coping mechanisms.

Neglecting mental health stability is a common issue in Nigeria, largely due to behavioral and socio-cultural barriers. To address this, government policies should be broadened to ensure easy access to mental health services for all citizens, particularly older adults. Promotion and prevention programs should extend beyond the adolescent demographic to include adults, encompassing policy initiatives, vocational support, and public education. While the effectiveness of electronic therapy (E-therapy) services in comparison to face-to-face counseling is still a subject of research, it offers significant benefits, including enhanced monitoring of patient progress and medication adherence. Encouraging well-funded government programs for psychotherapy among both youth and elders is crucial, as poverty often hinders access to healthcare. Educational institutions, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and mental health volunteers should collaborate to raise awareness and address the numerous barriers that have hindered the growth of professional psychotherapy practices in Nigeria.

Moving forward, this is a moment for us to recognize the urgency of addressing mental health challenges among older citizens. Comprehensive measures, including policy reforms, increased awareness, and improved access to psychotherapy services, are essential steps towards ensuring a brighter and mentally healthier future for older Nigerians.

Jimoh Sarat Ayomide; faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ilorin, Nigeria.

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