Plan International Nigeria has emphasised that mental health is not a luxury but a vital component of human resilience and recovery, particularly in times of crisis.
This was stated yesterday by Mr. Noel Gukas, Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Officer at Plan International Nigeria, during the 2025 World Mental Health Day commemoration organised by Plan International Nigeria in collaboration with the Bauchi State Ministry of Health and other partners.
The theme for this year is: “Access to Services-Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.”
Mr. Gukas explained that the theme reminds everyone that when disasters occur, whether caused by conflict, displacement, climate shocks, or health emergencies, the psychological and emotional effects are profound and often neglected.
“In Nigeria and across the world, many children, adolescents, and youth experience not only the immediate disruptions of emergencies but also long-term impacts such as anxiety, trauma, loss of support systems, disrupted education, and uncertain futures,” he said.
He reaffirmed Plan International Nigeria’s commitment to ensuring that every child and young person, regardless of their circumstances, has prompt access to safe, inclusive, and youth-friendly mental health services.
“At Plan International Nigeria with funding from Global Affairs Canada (GAC), we believe every young person must have the opportunity to express their emotions freely, without fear or stigma. We continue to work with communities, governments, and partners to strengthen support systems during emergencies and beyond,” he added.
Mr. Gukas further emphasised the importance of empowering young people through life skills, peer support, and clear referral pathways to help them not just survive but thrive.
“To our young people, you are seen. Your feelings matter. Your voice deserves to be heard. If you are struggling, please reach out to a trusted adult, peer, community worker, or mental-health professional. Seeking help is a sign of strength,” he encouraged.
He called for the integration of mental health into all emergency responses, stressing that mental health support should never be an afterthought. “Let us ensure that mental health services are accessible, free of judgment, and responsive to the unique needs of children and youth,” he said.
For his part, the Bauchi State commissioner for Health, Dr. Sani Muhammad Dambam, stated that the commemoration aims to raise awareness on the importance of mental health and the need for access to quality care for all.
Represented by Abdullahi Dan Asabe, Director of Public Health, the commissioner said “Mental health is an essential part of overall well-being. We must continue to tackle the challenges and misconceptions surrounding it,” he said.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to intensifying public awareness efforts to help communities better understand mental health issues. “Through awareness and education, individuals will be empowered to take proactive steps to safeguard their mental well-being and seek help when necessary,” he added.
The commissioner urged the public to seek medical assistance whenever they experience signs of mental health challenges, “Together, we can build a society where mental health is recognized, supported, and prioritised,” he said.
In his paper presentation, Dr. Fawaz Babandi from the Department of Psychiatry, ATBUTH Bauchi, said that the World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners have recognised a steady rise in global emergencies, including conflicts, natural disasters, and other crises, which have heightened mental health needs.
“In many emergencies, mental health is neglected or under-prioritised,” he noted.
Dr. Babandi emphasised that this year’s global focus is on integrating mental health services into emergency and disaster management systems, ensuring that affected individuals receive psychological support alongside physical care.
