In a momentous stride towards prioritizing mental well-being, Dr. Aisha Bala Mohammed, the distinguished Wife of the Bauchi State governor, has officially inaugurated a state-of-the-art Mental Health Steering Committee. The committee, unveiled in a ceremony, marks a significant leap forward in addressing the comprehensive mental health needs of the people of Bauchi State.
During the inauguration, the first lady eloquently conveyed the profound understanding that mental health extends beyond the mere absence of illness. She emphasized its broader scope, encompassing emotional well-being, resilience, and the ability to navigate life's diverse challenges.
Citing data from the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Aisha shed light on the staggering statistic that one in eight individuals globally grapples with mental health conditions. Notably, she underscored the prevalence of depression as a leading cause of disability, particularly among adolescents.
Expressing concern over the inadequate global services for those with mental health conditions, Dr. Aisha, represented by Mr. Dahiru Abdullahi, the overseeing Permanent Secretary of the Bauchi State Ministry of Women Affairs, drew attention to Nigeria's own challenges. "Many Nigerians are contending with various forms of mental health challenges," she noted. Quoting the WHO's mental health status report on Nigeria, she revealed that an estimated 40 million Nigerians, constituting 20 percent of the population, are affected by mental health conditions. Shockingly, only 10 percent of those with serious mental health conditions receive treatment within a 12-month period.
Dr. Aisha called for a transformative approach in mental health services, emphasizing the potential of primary preventive and promotional strategies. "Addressing mental health early can prevent worsening conditions, reduce suffering, and enhance overall well-being," she declared. She urged stakeholders and partners to innovate and strategize on fortifying mental health interventions in communities. The establishment of the Mental Health Steering Committee in Bauchi, she disclosed, was in response to a directive from the Federal Ministry of Health. This strategic move aims to ensure effective coordination, strengthening, and implementation of mental health interventions in the state.
Reiterating the administration's commitment, Dr. Aisha outlined the ultimate goal of achieving a fully functional, result-oriented, affordable, accessible, and inclusive health system. The administration remains steadfast in prioritizing the most disadvantaged, particularly those in rural areas, as well as vulnerable populations such as women, children, and the elderly - an unequivocal testament to the Kauran Bauchi-led administration's unwavering dedication to holistic health.