The Ogun State Government has raised concern over the rising number of mental health cases, revealing that more than ten thousand patients were recorded in the first half of this year.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, disclosed this in Abeokuta during a press briefing to mark the 2025 World Mental Health Day, describing the situation as “real and growing fast.”
Represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Oladehinde Kayode, Dr. Coker explained that data from four major service points, Abeokuta, Ijebu Ode, Ilaro, and Ota, showed that nearly one thousand were new cases, while others were follow-ups.
Speaking on the theme “Access to Services, Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” the Commissioner reaffirmed government’s commitment to making mental health care accessible, affordable, and acceptable to all residents, in line with global efforts to strengthen mental health response during crises.
Dr. Coker noted that disasters such as floods, insecurity, disease outbreaks, and other emergencies often leave behind psychological scars including trauma, stress, depression, and anxiety.
She called for collective action across all sectors, urging families, employers, religious leaders, and the media to promote mental well-being and reduce stigma in their communities.
Written by Iyeh Enema