Poverty and Social Crisis in Nigeria Predisposing Citizens to Madness

Dr. Taiwo Obindo, a Consultant Psychiatrist and President of the Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria, has raised concerns about the potential rise in mental health conditions among Nigerians due to the visible hardships in the country. In an interview in Lagos, Dr. Obindo highlighted economic challenges, poverty, and various social factors as contributors to mental illness.

He pointed out that factors such as the high cost of living, kidnapping, financial problems, inflation, child abuse, rape, broken homes, broken marriages, traumatic experiences, and violence were increasing the likelihood of mental health issues among Nigerians. Dr. Obindo emphasized that individuals predisposed to these social factors were particularly vulnerable to developing mental health conditions, especially in the current economic climate.

Poverty was identified as a significant cause of mental illness, with many Nigerians facing economic hardship. Dr. Obindo noted that the effects of inflation, poverty, insurgent attacks, insecurity, and other social crises had led to an increase in the need for psychiatric evaluation.

Victims of traumatic events like rape or kidnapping often suffer from high levels of trauma, which can have long-lasting effects on their mental health. Dr. Obindo quoted statistics from the World Health Organization, stating that around 64 million Nigerians were affected by depression, highlighting depression and stress as major contributors to mental illness.

Despite these challenges, Dr. Obindo expressed concern about the shortage of mental health facilities and workers in Nigeria. He noted that there are fewer mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, and psychologists, in the country. Additionally, many of these professionals have been attracted to work in foreign countries, further exacerbating the situation.

Research has shown that one in four Nigerians will experience a mental health-related problem in their lifetime. However, the lack of sufficient mental health facilities and workers in Nigeria poses a significant challenge in addressing these issues effectively. Dr. Obindo stressed the urgent need for increased investment in mental health services to support those affected by mental illness in the country.

Daily Nigerian