Abuja:The Vanguard Against Drug Abuse (VGADA) Specialist Rehabilitation Centre has urged the inclusion of individuals with lived experiences of mental health challenges to improve awareness, access to care, and public understanding of mental health.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Hope Omeiza, Executive Director of VGADA, emphasized this need during an awareness walk organized to commemorate the 2026 World Mental Health Day. The global theme for the event, ‘Lived Experiences Heard Real Voices, Real Change’, underscores the importance of incorporating the perspectives of those who have faced mental health challenges into policy development, services, and interventions.
Omeiza highlighted the necessity of moving beyond general awareness campaigns by creating opportunities for people with lived experiences to contribute to discussions and decisions about mental well-being. This approach could improve understanding of their needs, identify barriers to accessing care, and encourage the development of more responsive support systems.
Addressing stigma and discrimination, Omeiza noted, is crucial as these factors often prevent individuals from seeking professional help. He stressed creating a supportive environment where affected individuals can share their experiences without fear of judgment.
Additionally, Omeiza pointed out the link between mental health and substance abuse, a key area of VGADA’s work. He explained that substance use disorders can accompany mental health conditions, exacerbating psychological symptoms and creating additional challenges. Comprehensive interventions, including prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation, are necessary to address these issues.
Omeiza called on governments, health professionals, civil society organizations, and community leaders to collaborate in promoting mental well-being and reducing stigma. He emphasized the value of policies that recognize the experiences of affected individuals, which can aid stakeholders in understanding care barriers and developing better services.
Mr. Kenneth Anetor, Founder of A New Thing International, highlighted community participation’s importance in promoting mental health awareness and supporting those with psychological difficulties. Dr. Jurbe Simon, Secretary of the National Association of Clinical Psychologists, underscored the significance of professional support, early identification, and appropriate interventions in addressing mental health challenges.
Ms. Salma Aminu, Mayor of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Abuja chapter, spoke on the creative industry’s potential role in promoting mental health awareness and challenging stereotypes through storytelling, film, and theatre. The awareness walk gathered stakeholders from various sectors to promote mental health awareness and encourage collective action in addressing related challenges.