By Kehinde KOLAWOLE
• Calls for Enhanced Employee Assistance Programs Grow Among Workplace Wellness
• As Lagos First Lady Leads Efforts to Raise Mental Health Awareness
In a bold step to improve mental health services across Lagos, the State government has launched the Lagos Lifeline Smart Number: 0700 000 MIND (0700 000 6463), providing a critical new resource for residents seeking mental health support. This innovative helpline is designed to expand access to essential services and enhance existing support systems. It complements the already operational Lagos Lifeline Number: 090 9000 MIND (090 9000 6463), reinforcing the government’s commitment to addressing mental health challenges and ensuring that help is just a call away for those in need.
According to the press release signed by the Director, Public Affairs of the Ministry, Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, it states that during the “Lift Up Hope” event at JJT Park, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos State marked World Mental Health Day with the launch of a new helpline designed to provide immediate access to mental health support. This initiative builds on the government’s commitment to tackling mental health challenges, offering vital resources to both workers and the general public. The new helpline reflects Lagos’ dedication to expanding mental health services, ensuring that more residents can easily reach the help they need, whenever they need it.
Hosted by the Lagos State Ministry of Health, the event featured an engaging lecture on mental health, emphasizing the theme “Mental Health in the Workplace.” Attendees participated in a ceremonial release of green balloons, symbolizing hope and resilience amidst mental health challenges. The discussions aimed to raise awareness and promote support for mental health issues affecting the workforce, reinforcing the importance of fostering a supportive environment for all employees. This event was a significant step toward creating a culture of understanding and care around mental health in the workplace.
At the event, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the First Lady of Lagos State, emphasized the vital significance of mental health in today’s fast-paced world. Her remarks underscored the urgent need for increased awareness and support, highlighting that mental well-being is essential for both personal and professional success. Through her advocacy, she aims to inspire a cultural shift that prioritizes mental health, ensuring that individuals receive the care and resources they need to thrive in a demanding environment.
She expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Ministry of Health for its unwavering commitment to tackling mental health challenges. Dr. Sanwo-Olu highlighted the importance of developing sustainable solutions that provide ongoing support for individuals in need. Her remarks reinforced the notion that effective mental health care requires not just immediate assistance, but also long-term strategies that empower individuals and communities to thrive.
Speaking on behalf of Dr. Sanwo-Olu, Dr. Laja Odunuga, a Consultant Public Health Physician and Independent Health Consultant from the Orunsi Wellcare Foundation, addressed the pressing issue of mental health awareness in Nigeria, describing it as alarmingly insufficient. She called for a united effort to raise awareness and draw attention to the challenges surrounding mental illness. Dr. Odunuga’s remarks emphasized the need for community involvement and education, advocating for a collaborative approach to improve understanding and support for mental health issues across the nation.
“There is no health without mental health,” she stated, underscoring the interconnection between physical and mental well-being.
The First Lady urged everyone to prioritize mental health alongside physical well-being, highlighting the necessity of fostering safe and healthy work environments. She warned that neglecting mental health could significantly diminish productivity and called on employers to recognize the mental well-being of their staff as essential to workplace success. “We must all work together to improve help-seeking behavior for emotional disorders,” she stated, underscoring the collective responsibility to promote mental health awareness and support within organizations.
Similarly, Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, passionately reinforced the importance of workplace environments in shaping mental health. She highlighted the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health issues, which often discourages individuals from seeking the support they need. Emphasizing the necessity of a cultural transformation, Dr. Ogunyemi called for a shift in perception that recognizes asking for help as a sign of strength rather than weakness. Her remarks underscored the critical need to foster a supportive atmosphere where mental well-being is openly prioritized and encouraged.
“The workplace is where many of us spend much of our time, and it can either be a source of stress or a source of support. Unfortunately, mental health challenges in professional environments are often overlooked or downplayed. People who are struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression may feel pressure to “push through” for fear of being seen as weak or unproductive. This stigma around mental health must end”, she said.
In her address, Dr. Ogunyemi announced the launch of a new mental health helpline, 0700 000 6463, reinforcing the Lagos State government’s commitment to enhancing mental health initiatives. She highlighted the establishment of the Lagos State Wellness Centre (LASWELL), designed specifically to offer mental health counseling to government employees. This initiative reflects the government’s dedication to creating a supportive environment for mental well-being, ensuring that vital resources are readily available to those who need them.
She emphasized the importance of mental resilience in the workforce, stating, “We now know that a healthy workforce is not just a matter of physical well-being but also of mental resilience. Workers who are supported mentally are more engaged, more productive, and less likely to experience burnout or other negative health outcomes. For this reason, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which offer mental health support, counselling, and resources for employees, are crucial tools in building healthier work environments.”
During her address, she also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, which have significantly enhanced mental health services in the state. “Mental health is a shared responsibility,” she reminded the audience, calling on employers and community leaders to work together to foster supportive environments. Her call to action highlighted the importance of collective efforts in fostering mental well-being, reinforcing the notion that a united approach is essential for making meaningful progress in mental health care.
“To the business leaders and corporate organizations, I encourage you to take concrete steps to support the mental health of your employees. Implementing Employee Assistance Programs and offering counselling services is not just good practice—it is a necessity for the well-being of your workforce and the success of your business. To the community leaders and mental health advocates here, thank you for your continued dedication to raising awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health. Your work is invaluable, and together, we can continue to move the needle on mental health in Lagos State”, she concluded.
Moreso, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, emphasized the critical importance of mental health in the workplace, noting that many people spend more waking hours at work than at home. He highlighted the ministry’s proactive role in promoting mental health through a range of initiatives and collaborations designed to
raise awareness and provide essential support. Dr. Ogboye’s remarks underscored the need for a comprehensive approach to mental well-being, advocating for workplace environments that prioritize mental health as a fundamental aspect of employee welfare.
He postulated as thus, “At the Lagos State Ministry of Health, we have made mental health a top priority, and our efforts to build a mentally resilient society have been fruitful. One of our flagship initiatives, the LagosMiND project, continues to lead the way in expanding access to mental health services. In January 2024, LagosMiND launched a volunteer program that now engages over 100 volunteers who are contributing to research, media and content development, and community-based projects”,
Dr. Ogboye shared that the program has successfully empowered young people and professionals to contribute to a mentally healthy Lagos. He emphasized the ministry’s pride in the commitment of every volunteer involved in the project, acknowledging their vital role in driving positive change. This initiative reflects a collective effort to foster mental well-being throughout the state, highlighting the importance of community engagement in building a supportive environment for all residents
LagosMiND has achieved remarkable progress in partnering with government agencies and professional organizations to enhance mental health awareness across various sectors,” Dr. Ogboye stated. He noted collaborations with the Ministry of Education’s Education District 6, the Teaching Service Commission, the State Treasury Office, and professional bodies like the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management. These efforts underscore the initiative’s commitment to integrating mental health awareness into diverse fields, fostering a culture of understanding and support throughout the community.
These collaborations have been crucial in addressing the impact of mental health on productivity while fostering a culture of care and support in both workplaces and educational institutions. By engaging key stakeholders, the initiative has facilitated meaningful discussions that emphasize the importance of mental well-being, paving the way for environments where individuals feel valued and supported in their mental health journeys.
“Our work doesn’t stop there. We have expanded our library of digital mental health screening tools by more than 500%, giving residents of Lagos access to more resources to assess and manage their mental health. In addition, we have launched the first state-driven mental health program in Nigeria to provide resources and free mental health counseling and psychosocial support to NYSC corps members throughout their service year. This initiative, the first of its kind in the country, underscores Lagos State’s commitment to supporting young people as they transition into professional life.”, he explained.
Dr. Tolu Ajomale, Head of Special Projects and Mental Health, shared valuable insights into the state’s initiatives aimed at enhancing access to mental health services. He emphasized the launch of the mental health hotline in April 2021, which has been crucial in providing support to residents. Dr. Ajomale explained that the hotline was established following extensive research and insights gained during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the state’s commitment to addressing mental health needs effectively and responsively.
The next phase of this initiative focuses on broadening access to mental health services with the introduction of the new smart number, 0700 000 MIND (0700 000 6463). This innovative approach will enable licensed counselors to provide remote support, ensuring that both Lagos residents and individuals outside the state can receive essential mental health assistance. This expansion reflects our commitment to making mental health care accessible to all, regardless of location.
More importantly, Dr. Ajomale underscored the significance of connecting individuals with healthcare professionals who are attuned to their cultural and social contexts, particularly those who have relocated abroad yet wish to contribute to mental health care in Nigeria. He highlighted that Lagos is at the forefront of this groundbreaking initiative in Nigeria and across Africa, all under the supportive guidance of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. This commitment not only aims to enhance mental health services but also to foster a sense of community and support for Nigerians, regardless of their location.
“The aim is to increase investment in mental health care and provide services through various channels, including workplace and community programs, while integrating these efforts with clinical services”, he maintained.
It should be noted at this juncture that during the event, a poignant ceremony unfolded as green balloons floated into the sky, each one representing hope and resilience against the backdrop of mental health challenges. Attendees joined in this powerful act, releasing their balloons as a collective pledge to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health issues. This vibrant display not only illuminated the air but also united hearts in a shared commitment to support and uplift one another on the journey toward understanding and healing.
Conclusively, The “Lift Up Hope” event emerged as a pivotal moment for mental health awareness in Lagos State, underscoring the urgent need to nurture the mental well-being of individuals and communities. This gathering brought together diverse voices and stories, fostering an environment of understanding and support. Through workshops, discussions, and personal testimonials, participants shared their journeys, illuminating the challenges and triumphs of mental health. By advocating for empathy and connection, “Lift Up Hope” not only raised awareness but also sparked a movement towards a more compassionate and informed society, emphasizing that caring for mental health is essential for collective resilience and growth.
With a wave of ongoing initiatives and a growing commitment to awareness, stakeholders are optimistic about a future where mental health takes center stage. The collective efforts of advocates, healthcare professionals, and community leaders are driving a cultural shift towards understanding and acceptance. As stigma fades, conversations around mental well-being are becoming more commonplace, encouraging individuals to seek help without fear or shame. This hopeful trajectory envisions a society that prioritizes mental health, recognizing it as a fundamental aspect of overall well-being and fostering a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
