Nigeria has less than 150 psychiatrists for over 200 million population of people, as mental health experts have demanded the use of technology to minimize this gap.
This was disclosed by mental health experts during the programme organized by Greyhub to mark the 2024 Mental Health Awareness Month.
The CEO of GreyHub Therapeutic Centre, Dr Olusola Olowookere explained that the proportion of mental health professionals to the people in the country had deprived many Nigerians of the ability to access quick and convenient mental support.
“Statistics show that one in every four person will experience one form of mental health issue, either diagnosed or undiagnosed problem. In Nigeria, we have about 150 psychiatrists for over 200 million people and that is why people don’t have quick and easy access to care,” he stated.
He said that due to the limited number of psychiatrists in the country, it was pertinent that the few available ones make use of this technology to ensure that more patients get access to healthcare.
He recommended that with technology, patients can complete a few sections online and can be screened for common mental health concerns by seeking a certified therapist or psychologist online.
May, being the Mental Health Awareness Month, is celebrated to increase the knowledge of mental health and mental illness as well as mental illness and substance abuse in patients, health care professionals, families, and the society as a whole.
Speaking of the idea behind the programme, tagged “Wellness Wonderland”, Olowokere pointed out that the event was an awareness of mental related issues, he noted that mental health cannot be overemphasised in the wellness of the people.
The CEO disclosed that various risk factors like family background, life experience, trauma, etc., can influence mental health issues.
Dr Tolu Ajomale, director in charge of Special Project and Mental Health at the Lagos state Ministry of Health, stated that there have been a high number of cases regarding mental health issues, which have led to an increase in the records of suicide.
Ajomale concluded, highlighting that to alleviate this prevalent issue, the Lagos State government has established measures to discuss mental health related issues including passing a mental health bill in 2019, creating a help line, and training emergency medical personnel.
