What is Mental Health and Why is it Important?  

Mental health is a very important component of overall health, yet it remains under-discussed in many parts of the world, including Nigeria. According to the World Health Organization, mental health is a state of well-being in which individuals can cope with life stresses, work productively, and contribute to their community. 

In Nigeria, factors such as economic pressure, unemployment, academic stress, and limited access to mental healthcare make this topic even more important. 

Remember our previous article on health here. This gives a deeper understanding of the subject matter of mental health. 

What is Mental Health? 

Mental health talks about our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how people: 

• Think 

• Feel 

• Behave 

• Handle stress 

• Relate to others 

It is not just the absence of illness but the presence of positive functioning and resilience. 

Why is Mental Health Important? 

1. It Affects Everyday Life 

Mental health determines how well individuals function at school, work, and home (literally everywhere). 

Read more here: 

• “How to Manage Stress Effectively” (cluster: stress management) 

2. It Impacts Physical Health 

Poor mental health increases the risk of: 

• Hypertension 

• Heart disease 

• Weakened immunity 

• And more 

Read more here: 

• “Preventive Health: The Complete Guide” (cluster: preventive medicine) 

3. It Influences Productivity in Nigeria’s Economy 

With rising unemployment and hustle culture, mental burnout is increasingly common among Nigerian youth and professionals. 

Read more here: 

• “Effects of Drug Abuse on the Body” (cluster: substance abuse + coping) 

4. It Strengthens Relationships 

Mental well-being improves communication and emotional intelligence, which are essential in family and community relationships. 

Common Mental Health Disorders 

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders classifies mental disorders into: 

Anxiety Disorders 

This is very common among students and young professionals in Nigeria due to academic and financial pressure. 

Depression 

Often underdiagnosed due to stigma and cultural beliefs. 

Substance Use Disorders 

Increasingly prevalent, especially involving alcohol, codeine, and cannabis. 

You can read more here: 

• “How Drug Abuse Affects the Body (Short- and Long-Term)” 

Causes of Mental Health Problems in Nigeria 

1. Economic Stress 

• Unemployment 

• Financial instability 

• Inflation 

2. Academic Pressure 

• Exams such as (WAEC, JAMB) and university expectations 

3. Social & Cultural Factors 

• Stigma around mental illness 

• Belief in spiritual causes instead of medical care 

4. Limited Access to Care 

Nigeria has a low psychiatrist-to-population ratio, making access difficult and limited. 

Signs and Symptoms of Poor Mental Health 

Common Signs 

• Persistent sadness 

• Excessive worry 

• Fatigue 

• Sleep problems 

• Loss of interest in activities 

In Some Countries Context 

Some symptoms are often misinterpreted as: 

• “Laziness” 

• “Spiritual attacks” 

This delays proper diagnosis and treatment. 

How to Improve Mental Health

1. Build Daily Healthy Habits 

• Regular exercise (even walking) 

• Balanced diet 

• Proper sleep 

2. Manage Stress Effectively 

• Reduce social media overload 

• Take breaks from work or school 

• Practice mindfulness 

Read more here: 

• “Stress Management Techniques That Actually Work” 

3. Seek Professional Help 

Options in Nigeria include: 

• Teaching hospitals 

• Private clinics 

• Telemedicine platforms 

4. Strengthen Social Support 

• Family 

• Friends 

• Faith-based communities (very influential in Nigeria) 

5. Avoid Harmful Coping Mechanisms 

• Drug abuse 

• Alcohol dependence 

Read more here: 

• “Drug Abuse and Its Health Effects” 

Mental Health vs Mental Illness 

Examples of Chronic Mental Health diseases or conditions: 

While other forms of mental health crisis exist, these require very urgent attention and clinical interventions, psychosis, schizophrenia (Wrongly called madness), Mania, Depression, Anxiety disorder and more 

How to Maintain Good Mental Health Daily 

• Stay active 

• Eat nutritious meals 

• Stay connected with loved ones 

• Limit negative news consumption 

• Practice gratitude 

When Should You Seek Help? 

Seek medical help if: 

• Symptoms last more than 2 weeks 

• Daily life becomes difficult 

• Emotional distress worsens 

Early treatment leads to better outcomes. 

Conclusion 

Understanding what mental health is and why it is important is essential for improving overall well-being, especially in Nigeria where awareness is still growing. By addressing stigma, improving lifestyle habits, and seeking professional care, individuals can significantly enhance their quality of life. I believe it is very wrong to call a Schizophrenic a mad person also schizophrenia is manageable and treatable so instead of the stigma refer the patient to the hospital or mental health facility. Avoid practice such as smoking as while mental health issues are treatable, it takes time and money to treat.