Suicide Not An Option, Seek Support —  Nigerian Psychiatrist Warns Public

Suicide Not An Option, Seek Support —  Nigerian Psychiatrist Warns Public

A Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr. Adeola Ajayi, has urged Nigerians to avoid viewing suicide as a solution to their problems and to eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness. Speaking in an interview with Ireporteronline in Osogbo on Thursday, Ajayi, who works at the University of Osun Teaching Hospital, highlighted the importance of addressing mental health issues without discrimination.

Ajayi noted that stigmatization often prevents individuals with mental health challenges from seeking help. She emphasized that mental illness is a medical condition like any other and should be treated with care and compassion.

“Anybody can be sick, and when we see anyone with mental illness, we should not stigmatize them. Stigmatization is a major reason why people hesitate to seek help when they are unwell,” Ajayi said.

She also pointed out that suicide attempts are often cries for help, and families and friends should be vigilant in noticing changes in behavior that could indicate someone is struggling. Ajayi outlined several factors contributing to the rising suicide rates in Nigeria, including mental disorders, substance abuse, financial insecurity, and traumatic life events.

Ajayi called for more supportive approaches to those who have attempted suicide, noting that such individuals need medical treatment rather than punishment. She stated that with proper intervention, including psychotherapy and medication, many people could recover from depression and other mental health issues.

Dr. Glory Oyebanji, a general practitioner who also spoke to Ireporteronline, added that financial stress, unemployment, and feelings of hopelessness are common triggers for suicidal thoughts. She mentioned that bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions are real and require proper medical treatment, dispelling the myth that they are not common in Africans.

Both doctors emphasized the importance of early intervention, family support, and access to mental health care to prevent suicide and aid those struggling with mental health challenges.