National Association Of Seadogs Holds Mental Health Awareness Campaign In Ibadan
•By Odunayo Oluwabukola, Ibadan
IBADAN – In commemoration of World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2024, the National Association of Seadogs (NAS), Ibadan Branch, held a series of impactful events aimed at raising awareness about mental health, especially in the workplace.
This year’s activities included an awareness walk and an expert-led webinar, both focusing on the growing mental health challenges linked to the economic and social conditions prevailing in Nigeria.
The commemoration began with an awareness walk to Adeoyo General Hospital. During the walk, (NAS) members actively engaged with locals and passersby, discussing the importance of mental health and its impact on daily life and productivity.
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Participants emphasized the need to break the stigma surrounding mental health issues and to encourage community members to seek support when needed.
The highlight of the event was a webinar featuring two renowned experts in the field of mental health: Dr. Victor Makanjuola from the University College Hospital and College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, and Dr. Oyewole Adeoye from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso.
The discussion centered on the theme of “Managing Depression in the Workplace Under the Present Socioeconomic Crisis,” providing valuable insights into the ways mental health issues can affect productivity and well-being in a professional setting.
The webinar addressed coping mechanisms, the importance of workplace support systems, and the role of employers in fostering a mentally healthy work environment.
The theme of this year’s program was shaped by the prevailing conditions in the country, including double-digit inflation, rising insecurity, food scarcity, and high unemployment rates. These challenges have contributed to increasing mental health concerns, which, if left unaddressed, could significantly impact workplace performance and community well-being.
By focusing on these pressing issues, NAS aims to provide support, foster resilience, and advocate for greater mental health awareness in Ibadan and beyond.
The event was attended by NAS members and invited guests, all united in their commitment to promoting mental health awareness and support. As an annual event, this year’s commemoration highlighted the importance of adapting mental health discussions to the specific challenges facing the community, reinforcing the need for proactive measures to address these concerns.
The president of the Ibadan Branch of the National Association of Seadogs expressed gratitude for the participation and emphasized the importance of continued advocacy for mental health awareness. “In these challenging times, it’s vital that we come together as a community to support one another and ensure that mental health is prioritized, especially in the workplace.
Our goal is to break down barriers and create a supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable seeking help.