- Hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause significantly impact women’s mental health.
- Trauma, gender-based violence, and economic struggles exacerbate mental health issues.
- Stigma and lack of awareness prevent many women from seeking help.
- New facilities are emerging to provide specialized mental health support for women.
The Silent Struggle: Mental Health Crisis Grips Nigerian Women
Nigeria faces a growing mental health crisis, particularly affecting women. A leading psychiatrist, Dr. Motunrayo Oyelohunnu, has shed light on the complex reasons behind the increasing number of Nigerian women grappling with mental health disorders. The situation, she warns, is nothing short of “alarming.”
Biology’s Role: Hormones and Mood Regulation
Dr. Oyelohunnu explained that women are biologically more susceptible to mental health issues due to hormonal fluctuations. Throughout their lives, significant hormonal shifts occur during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. These changes, particularly in oestrogen and progesterone levels, directly impact mood regulation, making women more vulnerable to emotional distress. Think of it like a delicate balancing act – when the hormones are out of whack, the mind can suffer.
Postpartum depression, affecting many new mothers, is often overlooked, leaving women to suffer silently. Similarly, menopause-related disorders can significantly impact mental well-being.
Beyond Biology: Trauma and Societal Pressures
But it’s not just biology at play. Trauma, gender-based violence, economic hardship, and cultural expectations pile on the pressure, worsening the situation. Many women are victims of intimate partner violence, sexual abuse, and conflict-related trauma. This constant exposure to emotional harm, coupled with a lack of adequate support, leads to severe mental health problems.
A recent study suggests that at least one in five Nigerian women is living with a mental disorder. That’s a staggering statistic, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.
The Culture of Silence: Why Women Suffer in Silence
Ammuna Ali, Chairperson of the Intersect Consortium, criticized Nigeria’s healthcare system for failing to prioritize the unique mental health needs of women. For decades, women have carried emotional burdens without proper care, trapped in a culture of silence and shame that prevents them from seeking help. This stigma surrounding mental health needs to be broken down to encourage women to come forward and seek support.
A Ray of Hope: Women-Only Mental Health Centers
Amidst the grim statistics, there’s a glimmer of hope. The commissioning of a women-only mental health and drug rehabilitation centre in Abuja signals a shift towards providing specialized care. Ammuna Ali hailed the new facility as “a symbol of hope,” offering trauma-informed and gender-sensitive support for women struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, and more.
Substance Abuse: A Growing Problem Among Women
Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retd), Director-General of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), confirmed that substance abuse is a growing issue among women, often linked to deeper psychological trauma. This highlights the complex interplay between mental health and addiction, emphasizing the need for integrated treatment approaches.
A Safe Space for Recovery
Dr. Vincent Udenze, Managing Director of Olive Prime, emphasized that the new centre will offer psychiatric care, counselling, detox, and rehabilitation in a safe, non-judgmental space. This is crucial for women who may face stigma or discrimination when seeking help elsewhere. This centre aims to provide a haven where women can find recovery without judgment.
“This centre says to every woman battling depression or addiction: you are not alone, and recovery is possible,” Dr. Udenze stated, reinforcing the message of hope and resilience.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Recovery
Addressing the mental health crisis among Nigerian women requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes:
- Raising awareness about mental health issues and reducing stigma.
- Providing accessible and affordable mental healthcare services.
- Training healthcare professionals to recognize and treat mental health disorders in women.
- Addressing the social and economic factors that contribute to mental health problems.
- Supporting women who have experienced trauma and violence.
By working together, we can create a society where women feel empowered to seek help and where mental health is prioritized as a fundamental aspect of well-being.