Mental Health Awareness

One thought that resonates deeply with me as a human being, probably because I'm a counselling students is the importance of mental health awareness and the need to break the stigma surrounding it. Over the years, I’ve come to realize just how crucial mental well-being is, not just for individuals but for society as a whole. I live around Ojo Lagos State where alot of mental health disorder patient are always at the road side in the rain,sun,day or at night. It’s an issue that affects so many people, often silently, and yet is still misunderstood or ignored in many communities.

Mental health is often overlooked because it’s invisible. Unlike physical injuries or illnesses, you can’t always see when someone is struggling internally. This can lead to feelings of isolation for those facing anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges. Unfortunately, cultural and social stigmas create barriers that prevent people from seeking help. They worry about being judged, misunderstood, or perceived as weak.

Personally, I’ve had moments where I felt overwhelmed by stress and uncertainty times when the weight of daily life became almost too much to bear. During those periods, I learned how important it is to have support, whether from friends, family, professionals, or even online communities. I’ve also observed how simple acts of kindness, empathy, and active listening can make a tremendous difference in someone’s mental state. Sometimes, all a person needs is to feel heard and understood without judgment.

Another aspect that I find important is the role of education. From a young age, we should teach emotional intelligence how to recognize our feelings, communicate effectively, and cope with challenges. If mental health were discussed openly in schools and workplaces, it would normalize the experience and encourage more people to reach out. It would also help dispel myths and misinformation that contribute to fear and prejudice.

In society and politics, mental health resources need to be more accessible and affordable. Many people lack the means or access to proper care, which only exacerbates the problem. Governments and organizations should prioritize funding for mental health programs, research, and awareness campaigns. Moreover, workplaces should also cultivate environments where employees feel safe discussing mental health without stigma or repercussions.

At its core, mental health awareness is about compassion recognizing that everyone carries unseen burdens and that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. As communities, if we can foster openness and understanding, we create safer spaces for healing and growth.

In a world that often emphasizes productivity and external success, valuing mental health reminds me of our shared humanity. It challenges us to slow down, listen, and support one another not just because it’s necessary, but because it truly matters. This ongoing journey towards greater awareness and acceptance is, to me, one of the most meaningful and urgent efforts of our time.