By Grace Damulak
Nigerians have been cautioned against stigmatising people dealing with mental illnesses.
A Consultant Psychiatrist, with the Jos University Teaching Hospital JUTH, Professor Kingsley Okonoda made the call during a sensitisation campaign in Commemoration of the 2025 World Mental Health day with the theme, ‘Access to services-Mental Health in Catastrophe and Emergencies” held at JUTH, Plateau State.
Professor Okonoda explained that the day is celebrated annually to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and reduce stigma.
He added that stigma often drawn from negative beliefs leads to discrimination against those suffering from mental health issues, preventing them from seeking appropriate help.
The Head of Psychiatry Department, JUTH Dr. Tungchama Friday advised people to prioritize mental health and emphasized that professional help is always accessible, both during crises and in daily life.
He also announced that there will be free health services at the department to mark the day .
A Phychiatric Nurse, Eunice Modupe who listed some of the signs of Mental health issues to include mood swings, increased anxiety or fear also described mental health as a deviation from the normal healthy living of an individual.
Some patients who spoke to newsmen appreciated Juth for their professionalism and urged people to always seek professional help where necessary.
The event featured awareness talks to patients and staff at various units of Juth.
Edited by Karen keyen
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