The high prevalence of mental health disorders constitutes a serious public health challenge, affecting over 970 million people globally. The burden of mental health disorders in developing countries like Nigeria is significant and multifaceted due to limited resources, traumatic experiences, co-morbidities, socio-economic inequalities, and limited access to timely and effective mental health care services. To address this gap, our recent descriptive study analyzed the characteristics of individuals who reached out to mental health emergency hotlines nationwide.

Our findings emphasized the critical importance of mental health hotlines as a lifeline for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders, especially in regions where there are shortages of mental health professionals The study yielded valuable insights into caller’s demographics, behavioral patterns, and the unique challenges they encounter. This data has enhanced our understanding of how to effectively address gaps in mental health care access and services.

Leveraging this data, our goal is to inform policymakers and healthcare providers in designing and implementing strategies that will not only enhance access but also customize mental health services to meet the diverse needs of Nigeria’s population. The research represents a significant step towards developing a more inclusive, effective, and accessible mental health care system for all.

Read more about our findings and recommendations here https://lnkd.in/gQ68p86w

Acknowledging the authors: Nnenna Mba-Oduwusi, Dr Aloysius Odii, Tosin Adeniyi, MPH, Mubarak Ahmed – PDPHM, MBA, EMEKA RAPHAEL OGBOLU (FMCPsych), Titi Tade, Olubunmi Idera Buhari, Falmata Baba Shettima, Nneka Ngozichukwu Unaogu, Kehinde Aniyat Sodimu, Bolaji Akala

hashtag#MentalHealth hashtag#EmergencyHotlines hashtag#MentalHealthAwareness hashtag#GlobalHealth hashtag#InSiGHtHealthConsulting hashtag#MentalHealthSupport