Yaba Hospital Urges Early Mental Health Care, End to Stigma

 

By Atlantic Reports

The Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Lagos, has urged families, schools, employers and communities to help people seek mental health care early and protect them from discrimination.

The hospital’s Medical Director, Dr Olugbenga Owoeye, made the appeal on Monday at a lecture commemorating the 2026 World Mental Health Day.

The event’s theme was “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change”.

Owoeye said mental health conditions should receive the same attention as other medical conditions, noting that many are treatable and recovery is possible with appropriate care.

“Individuals living with mental health conditions should not be neglected. Their voices should be heard, and they should not be stigmatised,” he said.

He encouraged families, religious institutions and communities to support people experiencing difficulties and help them obtain professional assistance without fear of discrimination.

Owoeye identified persistent sleep problems, unexplained anxiety or sadness, substance use problems, behavioural changes and unexplained physical symptoms as reasons to seek professional assessment. These signs do not, on their own, establish a diagnosis.

He called for more investment in research, trained personnel and treatment facilities.

The medical director said the number of federal neuropsychiatric hospitals had increased from seven to 10 under the current administration. The supplied account did not identify the additional facilities or their operational capacity.

Mental Health Education in Schools

Guest lecturer Dr Grace Ijarogbe, a Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist at the hospital, called for comprehensive mental health education in secondary schools.

She said students needed the knowledge to recognise difficulties, make informed decisions and seek appropriate support.

Ijarogbe also raised concern about substance use among teenagers, warning that harmful substances could increase the risk of serious mental health problems.

She urged schools to address misconceptions that drug experimentation was harmless because peers appeared to use substances without consequences.

The psychiatrist called for effective implementation of Nigeria’s Mental Health Act so that reforms translate into accessible services.

Listening to People Receiving Care

Dr Olufunmilayo Akinola, Consultant Psychiatrist and Head of Clinical Services, said people with lived experience should participate in decisions affecting their treatment.

She said listening with empathy could help policymakers improve services and connect people to appropriate support.

“Seeking help should not be seen as emotional weakness; it is actually a strength,” she said.

Akinola encouraged people facing mental health difficulties to speak with trusted individuals. She also urged employers and communities to avoid discrimination and provide opportunities for people recovering from mental health conditions to lead productive lives.

The commemoration included a health walk to raise public awareness.

Atlantic Reports: Voices. People. Facts.