Nearly 30% of Nigerians Suffer Mental Health Disorders: A Deepening Crisis

Mental health challenges are escalating in Nigeria, with the Federal Ministry of Health estimating that between 20% and 30% of the population—approximately 40 to 60 million people—are affected by mental illnesses. This alarming statistic underscores a national crisis that demands urgent attention and comprehensive reforms

One of the most pressing issues is the severe shortage of mental health professionals. The Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria (APN) reports that fewer than 200 psychiatrists are available to serve the country’s over 200 million citizens. This equates to one psychiatrist per million people, a ratio far below the World Health Organization’s recommendation of one per 10,000 individuals. The “Japa syndrome,” referring to the emigration of skilled professionals seeking better opportunities abroad, has exacerbated this shortage, leaving the remaining practitioners overworked and under-resourced.

Mental health services in Nigeria suffer from chronic underfunding and inadequate infrastructure. The country’s health budget allocation to mental health stands at less than 6%, falling short of the 15% benchmark set by the Abuja Declaration of 2001. This financial neglect has resulted in a lack of essential facilities, medications, and trained personnel, particularly in rural areas where access to care is limited

Cultural beliefs and stigma significantly hinder the recognition and treatment of mental health issues. Many Nigerians attribute mental illnesses to supernatural causes, such as witchcraft or curses, leading families to seek help from spiritual or traditional healers instead of medical professionals. This stigma not only delays appropriate treatment but also contributes to social isolation and discrimination against those affected.

In January 2023, Nigeria enacted the National Mental Health Act, replacing the outdated Lunacy Act of 1958. The new legislation aims to protect the rights of individuals with mental health conditions and integrate mental health services into primary healthcare. However, the implementation of this law faces significant challenges, including insufficient funding, lack of trained personnel, and the need for domestication at the state level.

Economic hardship, unemployment, and insecurity are major contributors to the mental health crisis in Nigeria. The rising cost of living, coupled with high unemployment rates, has led to increased stress and anxiety among the population. Additionally, the prevalence of substance abuse, particularly among the youth, exacerbates mental health issues and strains the already limited healthcare resources.

Maternal mental health is another area of concern, with approximately 25% of Nigerian women experiencing mental health disorders during pregnancy and 19% during the postnatal period. These conditions, primarily perinatal depression, not only affect the mothers but also have long-term repercussions on the physical, cognitive, and emotional development of their children. Despite the enactment of the National Mental Health Act, the integration of mental health services into maternal care remains inadequate.

To effectively tackle the mental health crisis in Nigeria, a multifaceted approach is necessary:

1. Increase Funding: Allocate a higher percentage of the health budget to mental health services to improve infrastructure, procure essential medications, and train more professionals.

2. Expand Workforce: Implement strategies to retain existing mental health professionals and incentivize the training and employment of new practitioners.

3. Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch nationwide campaigns to educate the public about mental health, aiming to reduce stigma and promote early intervention.

4. Integrate Services: Ensure the full implementation of the National Mental Health Act by integrating mental health services into primary healthcare and domesticating the law at the state level.

5. Community-Based Care: Develop community-based mental health programs that are culturally sensitive and accessible, particularly in underserved rural areas.

6. Research and Data Collection: Invest in research to gather accurate data on mental health prevalence and treatment outcomes, guiding policy and program development.

The mental health crisis in Nigeria is a complex issue that requires immediate and sustained action. By addressing the shortage of professionals, increasing funding, combating stigma, and fully implementing legislative reforms, Nigeria can make significant strides in improving mental health outcomes for its citizens. A collaborative effort involving government agencies, healthcare providers, community leaders, and international partners is essential to build a robust mental health system that meets the needs of all Nigerians.