Scholar Decries Surge In Mental Health Crises, Suicide Attempts

A don at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Prof. Matthew Olufunso Salomi, has identified several factors responsible for the increasing cases of mental illness and suicide in Nigeria, emphasising the urgent need for health education.

The Professor of Health Education lamented that many of the prevailing ailments are caused by a lack of adequate information on preventive measures.

He made the observation while delivering the 26th inaugural lecture of the university on Health Education.

Prof. Salomi urged stakeholders to unite and tackle the menace, noting that numerous physical, economic, social, and emotional issues affecting Nigerians could pose serious challenges to mental health.

“All hands must be on deck to tackle the menace of mental health issues, starting from the simple to the complex, from neuroses to psychoses. The chain must be broken before it gets out of hand in order to have healthy generations,” he stated.

He explained that problems such as tension, fear, extreme nervousness, and depression which can lead to psychoses could become severe challenges to mental health if neglected or left unattended.
According to him, “Common fears, anxieties, frustrations, and the pressures of the technological age are among the factors that can push potential suicide victims to take their own lives. All suicidal behaviours need attention and should never be taken lightly.

“Once there is any suicide attempt to end one’s life, which may stem from feelings of helplessness, the victim must, as a matter of urgency, be attended to and given appropriate care by professionals trained to handle such cases.”

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Mohammed Suleiman, reiterated the institution’s unwavering commitment to promoting research and innovation that address real-life challenges and improve the well-being of the people.