Residents of Lokoja, the Kogi capital, have called for greater empathy, supportive relationships and increased mental health awareness to promote emotional well-being and encourage people experiencing distress to seek help.
They made the call in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday, October 10, to mark the 2026 World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10. This year’s theme, “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” emphasises listening to people with mental health experiences and involving them in decisions affecting their care.
A civil servant, Mrs Grace Adejoh, stressed the importance of careful communication, noting that seemingly harmless remarks could cause emotional distress. Health worker Bayo Akingbade said stigma, fear of judgment, financial pressure and relationship challenges often prevent people from discussing their struggles. He encouraged people to express their feelings, manage stress, get adequate rest and maintain healthy relationships.
Other residents highlighted the importance of healthy lifestyles, personal boundaries and professional support. Data analyst Unekwu Peters said increased awareness was helping people recognise emotional difficulties, while businesswoman Rahmat Ahmed recommended regular exercise, balanced meals, adequate rest and supportive relationships. Ahmed also urged people to seek professional help when emotional distress persisted or interfered with daily activities.
The residents called for stronger mental health awareness in workplaces, families and communities, stressing that emotional well-being deserves the same attention as physical health.
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