SCI, other partners advocate for increased mental health awareness in Yobe
Save the Children International (SCI), Yobe State in collaboration with other partners have joined the global community to commemorate World Mental Health Day, emphasizing the need to prioritize mental health in all aspects of life.
Mr. Ogenyi Isaac Agbo, Mental Health Psychosocial Support Technical Working Group Coordinator for Save The Children International (SCI), stressed the importance of advocacy and support for mental health beyond the workplace.
“We want to see how we can join our voices to advocate for mental health and ensure that our mental health is being prioritised not just in the workplace but everywhere we find ourselves because our mental health problems have been isolated,” Agbo said.
Mallam Abdullahi Mai Muhammed Noor, a mental health expert at Yobe State Specialist Hospital, identified factors contributing to mental health disorders, including genetic predisposition, environmental influences such as loss of properties, loved ones, ambition, war, economic hardship among others.
Noor advised adopting protective measures, rest after hectic days, connecting with others to avoid isolation, engaging in positive activities and seeking support from local and international NGOs
Dr. Hauwa Larai Goni, Director of Public Health at Yobe Ministry of Health, acknowledged mental health as a global challenge.
She highlighted the state government’s efforts by appointing a State Mental Health Programme Manager and desk officers, developing capacity of health workers for early identification and intervention and ensuring comprehensive mental health services.
Other partners, including World Health Organisation (WHO), USAID, Life Help, NEYIF, IASC among others are collaborating with the state government to promote mental health awareness and support.
This year’s theme is “It’s Time to Prioritize Mental Health at the Workplace.” 
