In honor of Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, 2024, it’s important to examine Nollywood films that tackle mental health issues. These films are crucial in raising awareness and sparking discussions about mental health and suicide. The following three films offer insight into these topics, highlighting a silent crisis in Nigeria.
Suicide represents a significant public health issue, with over 700,000 deaths annually worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Each instance of suicide carries serious social, emotional, and economic impacts, deeply affecting both individuals and communities around the globe.
World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) was founded in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO). For 2024-2026, the theme is ‘Changing the Narrative on Suicide,’ with the call to action: ‘Start the Conversation.’ This theme focuses on raising awareness about the need to reduce stigma and foster open dialogue abo
ut suicide prevention. It aims to shift our perspective from one of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support.
The call to action encourages everyone to initiate conversations about suicide and its prevention. Each discussion, no matter how small, helps to build a more supportive and empathetic society. By engaging in these crucial conversations, we can break down barriers, enhance awareness, and cultivate a stronger culture of support.
In acknowledgement of Suicide Prevention Month, here are films that shed light on mental health and suicide.
1. Oga John
Oga John is a 10-minute short film directed by AMVCA-winning director, Tolu Ajayi. This thought-provoking short film follows the life of Alero, a young woman who appears to struggle with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). The film seeks to increase awareness about mental health issues in Nigeria. Produced by Bolanle Akintomide and written by Oje Ojeaga, Oga John stands out by focusing on a lesser-discussed condition in films abo
ut mental health. OCD is an impactful issue, and the film provides viewers with insights into the challenges of living with the mental struggle.
2. I’m Not Fine
I’m Not Fine is a 2022 mental health documentary created by Lota Chukwu, best known for her role as Kiki in Jenifa’s Diary series. This documentary delves into the mental health challenges faced by adults in Nigeria. It features six individuals who openly share their life stories, shedding light on their struggles with mental health issues, including depression and suicide attempts.
3. For Maria-Ebun Pataki
For Maria follows the harrowing experience of a first-time mother, Derin who struggles with postpartum depression. After a traumatic labour experience, Derin gives birth to her daughter Aria but becomes withdrawn, unable to engage in celebratory rites or care for her newborn. Misunderstanding her plight, Derin’s mother-in-law verbally abuses her, saying she is not a good mother. Directed by Damilola Orimogunje, the film stars Meg Otanwa, Gabrie
l Afolayan, Tina Mba and Judith Audu. Postpartum depression is a type of depression that affects mothers often after birth. For Maria sheds light on postpartum depression, a serious yet often overlooked issue affecting new mothers. The film earned six nominations at the 2020 Africa Movie Academy Awards demonstrating its impact on raising awareness about mental health in the Nigerian context.
Source: Voice of Nigeria