🌍 World Mental Health Day: A Call to Care in Nigeria

By Susan Omenuko | 10th October

Every year on 10 October, the world pauses to observe World Mental Health Day—a day set aside by the World Federation for Mental Health and supported by the WHO. It is more than a date on the calendar; it is a global reminder that mental health is health.

The purpose of the day is simple but urgent:

• Raise awareness of mental health issues.

• Reduce stigma that silences so many.

• Mobilise action so that mental health care becomes a reality for all.

THE STATE OF MENTAL HEALTH IN NIGERIA

In Nigeria today, mental health is both a silent crisis and a hidden burden. Studies show that 1 in 4 Nigerians will experience a mental health challenge in their lifetime—that is, about 50 million people.

Yet, fewer than 1 in 10 receive the care they need. The rest suffer in silence, often misunderstood, stigmatised, or left to families who themselves feel helpless.

WHY WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY MATTERS HERE

For Nigeria, this day is not just about joining a global campaign—it is about confronting urgent realities:

• Breaking the stigma: so more people can speak up and seek help without shame.

• Policy change: implementing modern mental health laws and including mental health in insurance schemes.

• Expanding access: taking services into communities and rural areas, where care is scarce.

• Reframing health: recognising that well-being is not complete without mental well-being.

EOON CARE’S ROLE IN THE JOURNEY

At EOON Care, our mission is to support elders, families, and communities through dignified, person-centred care. Mental health is central to that mission.

Here’s how we contribute:

• Awareness & Education: using workshops, social media, and local leaders to challenge myths and share practical information.

• Screening & Early Help: facilitating checks for depression, anxiety, or stress, especially in primary health care and rural settings.

• Support Services: providing counselling, companionship, and referrals to trusted specialists.

• Training: equipping caregivers, nurses, and community health workers to recognise and respond to common mental health concerns.

A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY

Mental health is not a luxury—it is a right. On this World Mental Health Day, let us choose to:

• Listen without judgment.

• Speak openly about challenges.

• Support one another.

💙💚 At EOON Care, we believe no one should walk the journey of mental health struggles alone. Together, we can break the silence, reduce the stigma, and build a Nigeria where care and compassion are within everyone’s reach.

👉 Learn more about EOON Care’s services: www.eooncare.com
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +234 816 7929 521
📧 Email: info@eooncare.com

#WorldMentalHealthDay #MentalHealthNigeria #EoonCare #BreakTheStigma #HealthForAll