By Henry Obetta
During the recent Ikeja Lions Club Health Awareness event commemorating World Mental Health Day 2025, the Lagos State Government reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to expanding access to mental health services and eradicating the stigma surrounding mental illnesses.
Mr. Joshua Natus, Coordinator for Mental Health and Development at Lagos MIND, spoke on behalf of the Health Commissioner, Prof. Akin Abayomi, highlighting significant progress in integrating mental health care into the primary healthcare system. This strategic move is designed to ensure that residents receive timely, affordable, and convenient mental health support within their communities.
“Mental health is often misunderstood as simply ‘madness,’ but conditions like depression are among the leading causes of illness, especially in young people. Changing societal attitudes is essential so that those suffering quietly can access the help they deserve,” Natus emphasized.
He elaborated on the Mental Health Integration into Primary Health Care (METRIC) initiative, which incorporates mental health evaluations into routine visits at primary health centers (PHCs). This proactive approach enables early identification of psychological distress, even when patients initially report physical symptoms such as persistent headaches or chronic fatigue.
“Many individuals come to PHCs with physical complaints, unaware that these may be manifestations of anxiety or depression. By embedding mental health services within these centers, we can detect and address issues early, preventing escalation,” he explained.
Mr. Natus also highlighted the Lagos Lifeline, a confidential, round-the-clock tele-counseling service staffed by trained therapists and counselors, providing immediate emotional support to those in need.
“The Lagos Lifeline is available 24/7 to offer urgent counseling and assistance to anyone grappling with mental health difficulties,” he added.
Furthermore, mental health units have been established in several general hospitals across Lagos, including Isolo, Mushin, Gbagada, and LASUTH, improving service accessibility and working to dismantle societal stigma.
In addition, the LASWELL Centre at Veronica General Hospital in Alausa offers specialized mental wellness programs tailored for Lagos State employees.
“Lagos is also advancing plans to construct the largest mental health facility in West Africa, which will serve as a center for treatment, research, and rehabilitation,” Natus revealed.
“This groundbreaking institution will be instrumental in normalizing conversations about mental health and reinforcing the message that mental well-being is a fundamental human concern.”
He further stressed that mental health exists on a continuum, with everyone experiencing emotional ups and downs that affect daily functioning.
“It’s normal to have days when you feel unmotivated or uneasy without an obvious cause. We all fluctuate along this spectrum, encountering both positive and negative mental states,” he noted.
Dr. Folashade Tawa, Medical Officer of Health for Ikeja Local Government, underscored the necessity of sustained advocacy to mainstream mental health within public health discourse.
“Mental health issues are no longer confined to extreme cases; many people silently battle depression or anxiety but hesitate to seek help due to stigma,” she said. “We must raise awareness, engage communities, and ensure mental health services are accessible and affordable.”
Lion Jide Bello, Multiple Council Chairperson of Lions Clubs International, called for stronger collaboration among government bodies, NGOs, and professional groups to address Nigeria’s growing mental health challenges.
“Nearly 20 percent of Nigerians-about 40 million people-are affected by mental health conditions. It’s crucial to let them know they are not alone and to foster a community built on empathy and hope,” Bello stated.
The Ikeja Lions Club hosted the event, which featured free mental health screenings and counseling sessions, aligning with the 2025 World Mental Health Day theme: “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right,” promoting inclusivity and awareness.