40 Million People Suffer Mental Disorders: A Call to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace
The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) in Abuja has urged the Federal Government to create a conducive workplace environment to address mental health issues affecting approximately 40 million Nigerians. The call coincided with World Mental Health Day 2024, with a theme focused on prioritizing mental health in the workplace.
The organization emphasized the need for stringent sanctions against workplace harassment and bullying, establishment of safe reporting channels, mental health awareness promotion, and accessible mental health resources. NAS aims to elevate the conversation around mental health and advocate for protections and safe reporting mechanisms for victims of workplace bullying.
Meanwhile, mental health advocate Tunmise Oladapo-Kuku highlighted the importance of men prioritizing their mental health amidst life challenges. She emphasized the need to demystify mental health narratives, especially for men facing depression, anxiety, and other disorders. To create awareness, plans are in place for a one-day retreat for men in Ikeja to address the mental health crisis.