Sanity in Nigeria: Nurturing Well-being Amidst Unique Challenges -By Caleb Onah

Chinedu, a struggling artist, faced the daily grind in Abuja, Nigeria, constantly battling the pressures of society. Within his art, he found a sanctuary to confront his mental health challenges. Each brushstroke carried his emotions, a visual representation of his inner turmoil. As he painted, his mind cleared, and he discovered moments of clarity amidst the chaos in our country. Through his artwork, he was able to shed light and found sanity.

Living in Nigeria, a country known for its diverse cultural landscape, vibrant energy, and rich history, comes with its own set of health challenges that can significantly impact mental health and overall well-being.

Economic inequalities, political unrest, social tensions, and inadequate healthcare resources pose hurdles that individuals must navigate daily. However, it is essential to acknowledge that despite these difficulties, there are ways to prioritise mental sanity and foster resilience.

In Nigeria, the impact of challenging circumstances on mental health cannot be underestimated. The economic struggles, high unemployment rates, and large income disparities contribute unknown to many the causes stress, anxiety, and a sense of uncertainty. Political instability, corruption, and inadequate governance further exacerbate these challenges, leading to a profound impact on mental well-being.

Additionally, social inequalities, tribal tensions, and religious differences create a complex social fabric that can strain relationships and fuel societal pressures. The lack of accessible and quality mental healthcare services further compounds the challenges faced by individuals in need of support.

Despite the obstacles, there are practical steps we can take to prioritise our sanity in Nigeria: Cultivating relationships with supportive friends, family, or community members. Sharing experiences, seeking guidance, and having a support system in place can provide a sense of belonging and comfort during these difficult times.

As a counselor with constant interactions with different individuals, from diverse background and status – a client once told me, “As a young musician, battling my inner demons while navigating the challenges of daily life was hell. Amidst the noise and chaos, I discovered solace in playing music. Every note I played became an outlet for my emotions, a pathway to mental stability.”

At this time, as we prepare for a major shift in our country’s administration and governance, engaging in self-care activities that promote overall well-being is very important. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices can help manage stress levels and enhance emotional stability.

Also, identifying healthy coping mechanisms that works as individuals is very important. Engaging in hobbies, pursuing creative outlets, journaling, or seeking therapy can provide outlets for emotional release and a sense of control over one’s mental well-being.

While negative news and misinformation are on the high, staying informed selectively and about updated about current events and issues, but being mindful of media consumption is very important.

One experience and encounter with a young intelligent, vibrant and ambitious lady in one of my psychosocial support sessions revealed – as she is always striving to stay informed about the world around her. From my interaction with her; she eagerly followed the news, relying on various sources to understand the happenings in her beloved country.

However, as time went on, it was sad to notice a gradual shift in the tone and content of the news she consumed. Sensational headlines, biased reporting, and the spread of misinformation became rampant, especially on social media platforms.

Each day, from my interaction with her, it was found she let herself bombarded with negative news stories highlighting corruption, violence, and economic struggles. It seemed as though there was little room for positive stories or uplifting narratives.

The constant influx of negative news began to take a toll on her mental well-being. The once vibrant and optimistic young woman started feeling anxious, helpless, and overwhelmed. She couldn’t escape the feeling of despair that lingered within her. With each passing day, her mental health deteriorated further.

She noticed herself becoming more cynical and distrustful of others. The news stories she had once relied on for information now filled her mind with doubt and fear. She began to question the integrity of those in power, wondering if there was any hope for a better future. Her relationships began to suffer as well.

Her conversations with friends and family often turned into heated debates about the state of the nation. Trust eroded as conflicting information and conspiracy theories circulated. It became increasingly challenging to find common ground and maintain meaningful connections. That is why limiting exposure to negative news and balance it with positive stories and experiences to maintain a more balanced perspective is paramount.

We can participate in initiatives that address social issues and promote positive change. Volunteering, advocacy, or joining community development projects can contribute to a sense of purpose, inspire hope, and foster resilience.

Embrace the diverse cultural heritage of Nigeria and celebrate the positive aspects of the country. Engage in activities that promote cultural exchange, appreciate traditions, and foster a sense of pride in Nigerian identity.

Maintaining sanity in Nigeria is an ongoing journey that requires us as individuals to be proactive, resilient, and self-aware. While the challenges may be formidable, it is crucial to prioritise mental well-being by building a support network, practicing self-care, and developing healthy coping mechanisms.