Introduction:

• For the past 15 years, the global development agenda largely neglected mental health, from the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to their conclusion in 2015.
• Despite MDGs’ successes in various health areas, mental health was conspicuously absent from the agenda, despite its widespread global impact and its influence on multiple MDGs.

Global Impact of Mental Health:

• Mental health conditions were overlooked during the MDGs, despite their far-reaching consequences.
• Mental health issues cut across multiple MDGs, affecting progress in areas such as poverty reduction, health equity, and peace and justice.

Interconnection with Physical Health:

• Mental health is closely intertwined with physical health, making it a prerequisite for overall well-being.
• Neglecting mental health can have adverse effects on health outcomes and hinder progress in other development areas.

Connection to Development Factors:

• Mental health is intricately linked to various development factors, including poverty, economic growth, and social inclusion.
• Addressing mental health is crucial for achieving universal health coverage, access to justice, human rights, and sustainable economic development.

Role in Social Inclusion and Equity:

• Mental health plays a pivotal role in promoting social inclusion and equity.
• It can be both a barrier to and a facilitator of achieving goals like universal health coverage and human rights.

Behavioral Health and Physiological Wellbeing:

• The neglect of mental and physical health, along with various forms of sexual abuse, has resulted in a dramatic rise in cases in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.
• The negative consequences of technological advancement have contributed to a decline in attention to basic human needs and interactions.

Lack of Awareness:

• There is a significant lack of awareness and understanding of mental health in the region.
• Many perceive mental health issues as limited to “madness” caused by spiritual influences, hindering individuals from seeking help for conditions like depression, anxiety, and bullying.

High Prevalence of Sexual Abuse:

• Alarming statistics reveal a high prevalence of sexual abuse in Nigeria, with a significant number of victims being children and adolescents.
• Many victims do not know where to seek help or are too afraid to do so, underscoring the need for increased awareness and support systems.

Violence Against Children:

• The 2014 Nigeria Violence against Children Survey highlighted a disturbingly high prevalence of violence against children, including physical and emotional violence.
• Urgent action is needed to address issues related to child safety and well-being.

Advocacy for Mental and Physical Health Awareness:

• A group of dedicated young adults, led by a trained lawyer, motivational speaker, and health enthusiast, is actively advocating for mental and physical health awareness.
• Their efforts are critical in a region where these concerns are often underrated and ignored.

Commitment to Research and Advocacy:

• This group consistently engages in research, learning, and knowledge expansion to address prevalent mental and physical health issues.
• They seize opportunities to advance the cause of behavioral and physical health for young people in Nigeria and beyond, contributing to positive change in the region’s healthcare landscape.