Pay attention to mental health, media practitioner urges Nigerians

Former General-Manager, R2 FM Radio, Ibadan, Ms Gwendolyn Oshoniyi,  has urged Nigerians to always pay close attention to their mental health.

Oshoniyi made the call during the launching of her book with the title: “Naked and Squared, Surviving Depression: A Media Girl’s Perspective” on Sunday in Ibadan.

She said that it was important to avoid depression because once it consumes, it is likely to leave the victim paralyzed.

According to her, it can also cause immobility, unable to think, assimilate or chart the right path.

The media consultant said that one of the coping mechanisms for anyone drowning in depression was to get out of any form of toxicity, whether in the work environment or in a relationship.

Oshoniyi said that bottling up issues, instead of finding someone to talk to always, results to pent-up emotions which could lead to anger, anxiety, depression and aggression.

This, she said, could lead to mental illness, ulcer and high blood pressure.

“Strategies to kick out depression include listening to music and messages that uplift, reading books, attending conferences, workshops and by investing in prayers, “she said.

Speaking about the book, Oshoniyi said that the nine-chapter book chronicles her personal experiences and challenges with depression, grief, loss of loved ones and pains.

She said that the book also explains  a major discovery as to why sufferers would commit suicide.

“In Nigeria, one in four people suffered a sort of mental illness. According to WHO, Nigeria has Africa’s highest caseload of depression and ranks 15th in the world in the frequency of suicide.

“The book leaves me vulnerable, exposed and feeling naked. But, it is my hope that this book will liberate someone and encourage them to speak out, knowing they too can be free.

“Depression thrives in darkness and silence. Hence, this book exposes the darkness and pain behind.

“It is my hope that the sufferer and loved ones will follow some of the suggested solutions and speak to a psychologist, psychiatrist or an expert for help,” she said.

The event featured panels sessions, comments and contributions from media personalities, life transformational strategists, mental health experts, religious leaders among others.