By Stanley Nwako
The Anambra State Government has urged residents to pay more attention to mental health, seek professional help when necessary and stop discriminating against people living with mental health conditions.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Ben Obidike, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr Obiageli Uchebo, made the call during a press briefing to mark the 2026 World Mental Health Day at the Ministry of Health Conference Hall, Jerome Udoji Secretariat, Awka, on Monday, October 12.
The event followed the global observance on October 10, with the theme, *“Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change.”*
Obidike described mental health as an important part of overall well-being, explaining that it helps people manage daily challenges, maintain healthy relationships and contribute to society.
He identified depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and substance use disorders as common mental health conditions, stressing that they require proper medical care and should not be regarded as spiritual weakness or personal failure.
The Commissioner expressed concern over the effects of poverty, unemployment, insecurity, drug abuse, stigma and limited access to affordable treatment on mental health. He condemned the practice of chaining, confining or mistreating people with mental health conditions instead of helping them access professional care. He illustrated the dangers through the story of a 28-year-old trader, Obinna, who reportedly suffered emotional distress after losing goods worth more than ₦4 million in a market fire.
His condition worsened after he turned to alcohol and illicit drugs, while his family confined him in a prayer house for three months. He later received professional treatment and counselling after a neighbour intervened and eventually returned to his business.
Obidike said the experience highlighted the need for early intervention, understanding and professional treatment. He urged families and community members to listen without judgment, support people facing mental health challenges and respect their rights and dignity. He also stressed that people with lived experience should be allowed to contribute to decisions concerning their care.
The Commissioner said the state government was working to improve mental health services through the Solution Rehabilitation Centre at Nibo, the deployment of mental health professionals, plans to strengthen psychological services in the civil service and improvements at the Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Nawfia.
He added that mental health screening was being integrated into primary healthcare and other public health programmes, while the Ministry provides a confidential space for mental health support and counselling.
He advised residents experiencing mental health difficulties to seek help at Primary Health Care centres, General Hospitals, the Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Nawfia, or the Solution Centre at Nibo. He also encouraged parents to communicate openly with their children, discourage illicit drug use and take signs of hopelessness seriously.
He announced that interested attendees could access free, voluntary and confidential mental health screening and psychological assessment at the Ministry's designated Mental Health Space after the briefing.
Also speaking, the Mental Health Programme Coordinator, Dr Terry Okeke, emphasised the importance of practical experience and continued support in mental health care.
He explained that some patients require regular attention from psychiatrists and social workers over several months or even a year. He said the programme was designed to improve mental health awareness and help more people receive the support they need.
The Commissioner called on health workers, the media, families, community leaders and other partners to work together to reduce stigma and improve access to treatment.
He reaffirmed the state government's commitment to strengthening mental health services and ensuring that people living with mental health conditions receive proper care, understanding and respect.
