In Nigeria, a country marked by economic disparities and insufficient healthcare infrastructure, mental health support often takes a back seat, particularly in rural and conflict-affected regions. The significance of mental health care cannot be overstressed, with the World Health Organization highlighting it as a critical component in achieving overall health and well-being. Volunteer professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers, play a pivotal role in bridging this gap by providing pro bono services. This aligns closely with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to promoting inclusive economic growth, reducing inequalities, and ensuring justice for all.
The State of Mental Health in Nigeria
Nigeria faces unique challenges in its healthcare sector, including a shortage of specialized mental health professionals, stigma surrounding mental health issues, and an underfunded public health system. According to a 2019 report by the World Health Organization, there are approximately 0.1 psychiatrists and 0.02 psychologists per 100,000 people in Nigeria, which is significantly lower than in Western countries. This disparity is even more pronounced in rural and marginalized communities where access to any form of healthcare can be sporadic at best.
Role of Volunteer Professionals
Volunteer professionals step into this breach, offering their services free of charge to those who are often left behind by the conventional healthcare system. These professionals work either independently or through NGOs to provide counseling, therapy sessions, and mental health awareness campaigns. One notable initiative is the Mental Health Outreach Program (MHOP), which involves trained volunteer professionals traveling to remote areas to conduct workshops and provide one-on-one counseling sessions. These efforts not only address immediate mental health needs but also work towards destigmatizing mental health issues within these communities.
Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals Economic Growth
By addressing mental health issues, volunteer professionals contribute directly to SDG 8, which
promotes sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth. Mental health disorders often lead to a significant decrease in productivity and economic output. By providing necessary mental health services, volunteers help individuals return to productive employment, thereby contributing to the economic stability and growth of their communities.
Reducing Inequality
SDG 10 aims to reduce inequality within and among countries. In Nigeria, the inequality in access to healthcare services, including mental health services, is stark. Volunteer professionals play a critical role in leveling the playing field by offering services to underserved populations, thus directly contributing to reducing health disparities.
Promoting Justice
SDG 16 promotes peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provides access to justice for all, and builds effective, accountable institutions at all levels. Mental health support can play a crucial role in achieving this goal by helping individuals cope with trauma and stress, thereby fostering more peaceful and resilient communities. Additionally, ensuring access to mental health services is in line with the broader definition of justice, which includes the right to healthcare.
Successful Initiatives
Several successful models can be highlighted:
- Community-Based Intervention Programs where local volunteers are trained to provide basic psychological support and can escalate cases to professionals when necessary.
- Integration of Mental Health Services in primary care settings, allowing for early detection and treatment.
- Telepsychiatry initiatives that use mobile technology to connect mental health professionals with patients in remote areas, overcoming geographical barriers.
Frameworks for Scaling Efforts
To scale these volunteer-driven initiatives effectively, several frameworks can be considered:
- Government Partnership: Aligning efforts with national health policies and securing government backing can lead to sustainable funding and integration into public health
- Capacity Building: Training more community health workers and volunteers on basic mental health care principles can expand the reach of these services.
- Awareness Campaigns: Continued efforts to destigmatize mental health issues are crucial for the acceptance and success of mental health programs.
Volunteer professionals are indispensable in addressing the mental health care deficit in Nigeria’s hard-hit areas. Their work not only contributes to the well-being of individuals but also aligns with and propels forward the United Nations’ SDGs, particularly those related to economic growth, reducing inequality, and promoting justice. A concerted approach involving government, civil society, and international partnerships is essential to amplify the impact of these volunteer efforts.
Article by Tolulope Adebiyi
