Psychiatrist says appropriate legislation will address Nigeria’s mental health challenges

Prof. Taiwo Sheikh, National President, Association of Psychiatrists of Nigeria (APN), says that lack of legislation and policy is worsening the country’s mental health challenges.
Sheikh, in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Sunday, in Awka, said that the Mental Health Bill, if signed into law, has all the solutions to the mental health challenges facing the country.
According to him, the Mental Health Bill which has been passed by the National Assembly is yet to be signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari.
“We are experiencing a high burden of depression, suicide and other mental health challenges in the country because it does not get attention like other health conditions.
“We cannot continue to ignore the fact that there is mental health in every health condition and there is no health without mental health.
“Government at all levels have not prioritised and invested in the mental health of citizens which is why we lack adequate funding, infrastructure, personnel and above all, appropriate policy and legislation.
“It is sad that Nigeria is still operating under the 1916 Lunancy Act that criminalise mental health rather than promote the prevention of mental illness and ensure access to treatment, care and rehabilitation,” he said.
Sheikh urged President Buhari to sign the bill into law and prioritise the mental health of citizens as part of the core objectives of advancing social justice and development.
”I urge the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration to urgently sign the mental health bill into law and start implementation to enhanced the mental health and well-being of all Nigerians.
“If that bill becomes law, it will compel the government to guarantee access to equitable and quality mental health care delivery service to Nigerians.
“It will also address where to go when someone has a mental illness, the type of care and treatment, agencies to supervise mental health facilities and establish tribunals for maltreated patients to get redress.
”Our governments should begin to accord mental health the recognition it deserves to save the lives of citizens,” he said.