VALUED OR VEILED? A MIC FOR THE MINDS.

VALUED OR VEILED? A MIC FOR THE MINDS. SWEET IRONY. World mental health day for the challenged but na challenged Nigerians dey cope with am, abi? Abi, e no true? What’s our call to response? For Naija,Empathy equals weakness.In summary, keep your problems to yourself. A question to ponder on: “Has the problem been solved or has it silently killed vibrant labour force?Have we created, supported and advocated for a voice to be heard?Is it brain change or brain drain??” Let’s dive into the real deal. COPING MECHANISM. I equate this mental battle with the persona’s stream of consciousness, ME. It can be taxing to convey how I deeply feel towards either an internal or external conflict because I always assume the decisions of others. What I perceive is a challenge that is mentally sickening and tiring. Everyone wants to be heard, even for the pettiest things. A fact that needs no denial. Let’s use the old fashioned way- telling someone. What exactly would you say? Have I been able to tailor my words appropriate for a supposedly healing conversation? Will this trusted person be on my side? Is he/she even trusted? Matter wey you wan confide with pesin fit turn into gossip of the day. Will I get that desired result I want from them or do I fear for responses like, “Guy, sort am” or “I get my own wey you no fit grab.” Vitality or Validation: Can either be achieved when discussed or posted on Social media? The current status of social media holds no ground for sympathetic display towards mental health challenges. Where, then is the space to talk about your problem? I reiterate our cliché, “keep your problems to yourself.” Take a look at Nigeria, isn’t it challenging enough? We don’t want a space for pity party!!! Solution- Keep it to yourself.Reason- Misconception, fear.. the list goes on. STATISTICS Let’s do a quick demographic analysis. Research and recent reports have it that the current state of mental health in Nigeria continues to aggravate with active psychiatrists absconding for greener pasture due to the inadequate medical facilities and mental healthcare centre, as well as the low living standards and economic deficiency suffered by millions of Nigerians, including the mentally challenged bracket. With the crippled work force, a large percentage of mentally challenged individuals have no access to formal treatment, burgeoning the effects and long term battle of the mind. The main question is, which age distribution is predominantly facing mental health challenges and what is the potential source? Clearly the youths with cases of anxiety, high social hierarchy, depression and financial distress, on an exponential scale. CALL TO ACTION AND VERDICT. Social vices is on the rise and it is you and I that are significantly contributing to the rising cases of mental health challenges for all ages, especially the vibrant bracket. Each tweet, post, comments and all the names it bears should be expressed with caution, an empathetic caution towards the pain and suffering of another’s predicament. There is no ground for who is worse or which has contributed greatly to the rising cases. IT IS YOU AND I AND WE MUST FIX THIS!! Emotion = weakness right?I say Emotion equals power and action when channeled rightly to achieve the goal we want: Minds full of vibrancy and care. So while we read, hear and talk about our challenges, give the mind a mic and erupt with an applaud for action. Guide your thoughts and stretch your ears and hearts to the challenges of others.SAVE A MIND RIGHTLY!!

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