He warns that the escalating crisis is exacerbating the country's mental health challenges and contributing to an increasingly unsafe society.
Dr. Olajide made the appeal during a mental health awareness walk organized to commemorate World Mental Health Day 2026.
He serves as the Chairman of the Mental Health Action Committee in Ogun State, emphasizing the urgent need for government intervention in addressing the rampant substance abuse that is plaguing the nation.
Describing the current mental health situation in Nigeria as an epidemic, Olajide cited factors such as economic hardship, unemployment, and insecurity as major contributors to the growing mental health crisis.
“The mental health issues in Nigeria have reached epidemic levels, with more people affected than ever before,” he stated.
He pointed out that access to mental health care remains limited, with less than 10% of individuals able to receive adequate treatment, much of which is paid for out-of-pocket.
“Health insurance coverage for mental health services is still inadequate,” he noted, calling for more focus on improving access and support for mental health care.
Highlighting the gravity of the substance abuse issue, Dr. Olajide revealed that a staggering 90% of patients in mental health facilities are there due to substance use disorders.
He noted that the prevalence of drug use among secondary school students is alarmingly high, particularly with the rise of codeine and other substances.
The discovery of a methamphetamine laboratory in Ijebu-Ode further underscores the urgency of the situation. Olajide insists that without immediate government action, the problem will only worsen. “We need to catch young people early to reverse this trend and provide rehabilitation for those deeply entrenched in substance abuse,” he urged.
Dr. Sunday Amosu, Acting Provost and Medical Director of the neuro-psychiatric hospital, echoed Olajide’s concerns, stating that recent estimates suggest as many as one in seven Nigerians may be affected by mental health issues.
He called for a collaborative effort from government bodies, families, and NGOs to combat this growing challenge.
The awareness walk, themed “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices. Real Change,” sought to engage the community in meaningful discussions about mental health.
Dr. Chidi Ikwumezie, President of the Resident Doctors Association, emphasized the importance of listening to people's experiences and challenging the stigma associated with mental health.
As World Mental Health Day approaches on October 10, the call for action has never been more critical.
The alarming rise in substance abuse and mental health issues in Nigeria demands immediate attention and a united effort to foster a healthier society.
No comments:
Post a Comment