According to the World Health Organization, 20% of Nigerians suffer from various forms of mental illness, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse disorders, and more. But mental health counselor Sa’adatu Adamu does not believe those needs are not being served in equal measure.
“I started an advocacy campaign on mental health and counseling because I realized that many people are struggling with psychological issues,” Adamu told Prime Progress. “I felt there was a need to create awareness for mental health and counseling.”
Like many countries around the world — including the U.S. — Nigeria still contends with public prejudice towards mental illness, which impacts peoples’ motivation to seek treatment and rehabilitation.
In 2018, a team of Nigerian researchers conducted internal investigations in Eastern Nigerian hospitals and found that male health professionals stationed at non-psychiatric hospitals predominantly held stigmatizing attitudes towards patients with mental illness.
“Stigma influences access to care, because people may be reluctant to seek help despite experiencing mental or emotional problems as this might be seen as an acknowledgment of weakness or failure,” wrote lead author Michael Ubaka Chukwuemeka.
For the last decade, Adamu has been spearheading grassroots efforts to educate her peers and foster acceptance in healthcare settings — and the academic institutions where professionals get their start.
“Through our efforts, we strive to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and foster a culture of openness and acceptance,” Adamu said. “By promoting dialogue and understanding, we can pave the way for a future where individuals feel empowered to seek help without fear or judgment.”
“Together, we can build a community that prioritizes mental well-being and ensures that no one has to face their struggles alone.”
A version of this article originally appeared in the 2025 Mental Health Edition of the Goodnewspaper.
Header image via Sa'adat Adamu
