Nonye Soludo Urges Open Conversations to End Mental Health Stigma

 

By Atlantic Reports

Dr Nonye Soludo, wife of the Anambra State governor, has urged the public to challenge the stigma surrounding mental health and support people seeking professional care.

In a message issued in Awka on Saturday to mark World Mental Health Day, she called for open conversations that allow people to discuss emotional and psychological difficulties without fear of judgement.

Soludo said mental health deserved the same attention as physical health and urged families and communities to respond to people experiencing difficulties with kindness and understanding.

“Behind every smile may be a silent struggle, and sometimes, the greatest act of kindness is to listen, show compassion, and remind someone that they are not alone,” she said.

She stressed that seeking professional help should be regarded as a sign of strength rather than weakness.

Her message encouraged people to listen to those experiencing distress, offer support and avoid attitudes that could discourage them from speaking openly or seeking care.

Addressing people facing mental health challenges, Soludo reassured them that their feelings and well-being mattered.

“Your mental health matters. Your feelings matter and you do matter,” she said.

She urged them to seek support when necessary, placing professional guidance alongside compassion from families, friends and the wider community.

World Mental Health Day is observed annually on 10 October to promote awareness and support for mental well-being.

Soludo’s appeal focused on the everyday role people can play in reducing stigma: listening without judgement, showing compassion and encouraging access to professional help.

Atlantic Reports: Voices. People. Facts.