WMD 2024: LAGOS LAUNCHES NEW MENTAL HEALTH HELPLINE TO ENHANCE SUPPORT SERVICES

… As Lagos First Lady Advocates Mental Health Awareness 

In a groundbreaking move to enhance mental health support and expand access to mental health services across Lagos, the State government has introduced a new mental health helpline; the Lagos Lifeline Smart Number: 0700 000 MIND (0700 000 6463). This is in addition to the existing Lagos Lifeline Number: 090 9000 MIND (090 90006463).

The new line, which was announced at the “Lift Up Hope” event held today at JJT Park, Alausa, Ikeja, to commemorate this year’s World Mental Day, aims to provide immediate access to mental health resources, reinforcing the government’s commitment to tackling mental health challenges in the workplace and beyond.

The event organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Health featured a mental health lecture, a ceremonial release of green balloons, symbolising hope and resilience in the face of mental health challenges and discussions focusing on the theme, “Mental Health in the Workplace,” aimed at raising awareness and fostering support for mental health issues affecting the workforce.

Speaking at the event, the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu highlighted the critical importance of mental health in today’s fast-paced environment. She expressed her gratitude to the Ministry of Health for their continuous efforts in addressing mental health challenges and emphasising the need for sustainable solutions to support those in need.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by Consultant Public Health Physician and Independent Health consultant, Orunsi Wellcare Foundation, Dr. Laja Odunuga, noted that mental health awareness in Nigeria is alarmingly low, calling for a collective effort to bring attention to the issues surrounding mental illnesses. “There is no health without mental health,” she stated, underscoring the interconnection between physical and mental well-being.

While urging everyone to prioritise mental health alongside physical health, the First Lady emphasised the importance of creating safe and healthy working environments. She warned that poor mental health could lead to decreased productivity and urged employers to recognize the mental well-being of their staff as a crucial component of workplace success. 

Echoing the same sentiments, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi spoke passionately about the impact of workplace environments on mental health. She lamented the stigma surrounding mental health issues that often prevent individuals from seeking help, stressing the need for a cultural shift that views asking for help as a strength, not a weakness.

“The workplace is where many of us spend much of our time, and it can either be a source of stress or a source of support. Unfortunately, mental health challenges in professional environments are often overlooked or downplayed. People who are struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression may feel pressure to “push through” for fear of being seen as weak or unproductive. This stigma around mental health must end”, she said.

Dr. Ogunyemi while announcing the launch of a new mental health helpline, 0700 000 6463, highlighted the State government’s commitment to mental health initiatives, including the Lagos State Wellness Centre (LASWELL), established to provide mental health counselling for government employees. 

Emphasising the importance of mental resilience in the workforce, she acknowledged the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, which have significantly enhanced mental health services in the state, calling on employers and community leaders to work together to foster supportive environments.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye reinforced the importance of mental health in the workplace by stating that many individuals spend more waking hours at work than at home. He underscored the Ministry’s role in promoting mental health through various initiatives and collaborations aimed at raising awareness and providing support.

“At the Lagos State Ministry of Health, we have made mental health a top priority, and our efforts to build a mentally resilient society have been fruitful. One of our flagship initiatives, the LagosMiND project, continues to lead the way in expanding access to mental health services. In January 2024, LagosMiND launched a volunteer program that now engages over 100 volunteers who are contributing to research, media and content development, and community-based projects”, he said

Dr. Ogboye explained that this programme has empowered young people and professionals to work toward creating a mentally healthy Lagos, stressing that the Ministry is proud of the dedication of every volunteer who has passed through the project.

Head of Special Projects and Mental Health, Dr. Tolu Ajomale provided insights into the state’s efforts to improve access to mental health services. Dr. Ajomale highlighted the launch of the mental health hotline, in April 2021, which has been instrumental in providing support to residents. He explained that the hotline was developed after extensive research, including lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to him, “The next phase of this initiative involves expanding access through the new smart number 0700 000 MIND (0700 000 6463) that will allow licensed counsellors to work remotely, offering mental health support to both Lagos residents and individuals outside the state”.

Dr. Ajomale emphasised the importance of connecting individuals with healthcare professionals who understand their cultural and social contexts, particularly those who may have relocated abroad but still wish to contribute to mental health care in Nigeria. He noted that Lagos is pioneering this initiative in Nigeria and across Africa, with the support and directive of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

“The aim is to increase investment in mental health care and provide services through various channels, including workplace and community programmes, while integrating these efforts with clinical services”, he said.

The “Lift Up Hope” event was a significant step in promoting mental health awareness in Lagos State, highlighting the critical importance of supporting the mental well-being of individuals and communities alike. With ongoing initiatives and increased awareness, stakeholders are hopeful for a future where mental health is prioritised and stigma is eradicated.