Video - Nigerian psychologists recommend music for children impacted by violence

The healing power of music has been widely researched and documented around the world. In Nigeria, psychologists want music therapy to play a bigger part in the recovery of children impacted by violence.

CGTN

Nigeria to decriminalize attempted suicide

Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammad Pate, assures that Nigeria will soon join countries that have decriminalized attempted suicide.

Speaking at the 2024 World Suicide Prevention Day event in Abuja, Prof. Pate revealed that his ministry is working with the Office of the Attorney General to address the law criminalizing attempted suicide.

Nigeria has launched a National Suicide Strategic Framework (2023-2030) to identify risk factors, strategic objectives, and interventions for suicide prevention.

Prof. Pate emphasized that suicide prevention is a collective responsibility, urging a society that values mental health and provides care for all.

Africa’s suicide rate is 11.2 per 100,000, higher than the global average. In Nigeria, it’s 12.9 per 100,000, with young people (15-29 years) most affected.

This year’s event theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” aims to raise awareness about reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicides.

The ministry has taken significant steps to address mental health needs through treatment, prevention, and promotion.

For more information on Nigeria’s efforts to decriminalize attempted suicide and mental health initiatives, consider searching online for the latest updates.

By Joseph Erunke, Vanguard

Video - Nigerian men speak on mental health awareness

Some Nigerians say societal views on masculinity and cultural expectations have prevented African men from gaining mental health awareness. VOA Africa took to the streets of the West African nation to hear people’s opinions.

VOA

Video - Nigerian coach raises awareness over mental health issues

Samuel Okinrodoye swam 12 kilometers along a famous bridge in Lagos to raise awareness about mental health in Nigeria. In Lagos, many people have used the 3rd Mainland Bridge to commit suicide. Okinrodoye wants to encourage Nigeria's conservative society to be more open about mental illnesses.

CGTN

Related stories: Nigerian woman creates country's first mental health helpline

School in Nigeria helps girls to heal after Boko Haram

Video - Salsa teacher helps to dance the blues away in Nigeria