In a groundbreaking move to enhance mental health support and expand access to mental health services across Lagos, the State government has introduced a new mental health helpline; the Lagos Lifeline Smart Number: 0700 000 MIND (0700 000 6463). This is in addition to the existing Lagos Lifeline Number: 090 9000 MIND (090 90006463).

The new line which was announced at the “Lift Up Hope” event held at JJT Park, Alausa, Ikeja to commemorate this year’s World Mental Day, aims to provide immediate access to mental health resources, reinforcing the government’s commitment to tackling mental health challenges in the workplace and beyond.

The event organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Health featured a mental health lecture, a ceremonial release of green balloons, symbolizing hope and resilience in the face of mental health challenges and discussions focusing on the theme, “Mental Health in the Workplace,” aimed at raising awareness and fostering support for mental health issues affecting the workforce.

Speaking at the event, the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, highlighted the critical importance of mental health in today’s fast-paced environment. She expressed her gratitude to the Ministry of Health for their continuous efforts in addressing mental health challenges and emphasized the need for sustainable solutions to support those in need.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu who was represented by Consultant Public Health Physician and Independent Health consultant, Orunsi Wellcare Foundation Dr. Laja Odunuga noted that mental health awareness in Nigeria is alarmingly low, calling for a collective effort to bring attention to the issues surrounding mental illnesses. “There is no health without mental health,” she stated, underscoring the interconnection between physical and mental well-being.

While urging everyone to prioritize mental health alongside physical health, the First Lady emphasized the importance of creating safe and healthy working environments. She warned that poor mental health could lead to decreased productivity and urged employers to recognize the mental well-being of their staff as a crucial component of workplace success. “All hands must be on deck towards improving help-seeking behavior for emotional disorders,” she said.

Echoing these sentiments, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi, spoke passionately about the impact of workplace environments on mental health. She lamented the stigma surrounding mental health issues that often prevents individuals from seeking help, stressing the need for a cultural shift that views asking for help as a strength, not a weakness.

“The workplace is where many of us spend much of our time, and it can either be a source of stress or a source of support. Unfortunately, mental health challenges in professional environments are often overlooked or downplayed. People who are struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression may feel pressure to “push through” for fear of being seen as weak or unproductive. This stigma around mental health must end”, she said.

Dr. Ogunyemi while announcing the launch of a new mental health helpline, 0700 000 6463, highlighted the State government’s commitment to mental health initiatives, including the Lagos State Wellness Centre (LASWELL), established to provide mental health counseling for government employees. She emphasized the importance of mental resilience in the workforce, stating, “We now know that a healthy workforce is not just a matter of physical well-being but also of mental resilience. Workers who are supported mentally are more engaged, more productive, and less likely to experience burnout or other negative health outcomes. For this reason, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which offer mental health support, counselling, and resources for employees, are crucial tools in building healthier work environments.”

During her address, she also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, which have significantly enhanced mental health services in the state. “Mental health is a shared responsibility,” she reminded the audience, calling on employers and community leaders to work together to foster supportive environments.

“To the business leaders and corporate organizations, I encourage you to take concrete steps to support the mental health of your employees. Implementing Employee Assistance Programs and offering counselling services is not just good practice—it is a necessity for the well-being of your workforce and the success of your business. To the community leaders and mental health advocates here, thank you for your continued dedication to raising awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health. Your work is invaluable, and together, we can continue to move the needle on mental health in Lagos State”, she concluded.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, reinforced the importance of mental health in the workplace, stating that many individuals spend more waking hours at work than at home. He underscored the ministry’s role in promoting mental health through various initiatives and collaborations aimed at raising awareness and providing support.

“At the Lagos State Ministry of Health, we have made mental health a top priority, and our efforts to build a mentally resilient society have been fruitful. One of our flagship initiatives, the LagosMiND project, continues to lead the way in expanding access to mental health services. In January 2024, LagosMiND launched a volunteer program that now engages over 100 volunteers who are contributing to research, media and content development, and community-based projects”, he said

Dr. Ogboye explained that this program has empowered young people and professionals to work toward creating a mentally healthy Lagos, stressing that the Ministry is proud of the dedication of every volunteer who has passed through the project.
“LagosMiND has also made significant strides in collaborating with government agencies and professional bodies to promote mental health awareness and its importance in various sectors. We have engaged with the Ministry of Education’s Education District 6, the Teaching Service Commission, the State Treasury Office, and professional bodies such as the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management. These collaborations have been pivotal in discussing mental health’s impact on productivity and creating a culture of care and support in workplaces and educational institutions.

“Our work doesn’t stop there. We have expanded our library of digital mental health screening tools by more than 500%, giving residents of Lagos access to more resources to assess and manage their mental health. In addition, we have launched the first state-driven mental health program in Nigeria to provide resources and free mental health counseling and psychosocial support to NYSC corps members throughout their service year. This initiative, the first of its kind in the country, underscores Lagos State’s commitment to supporting young people as they transition into professional life.”, he explained.

Head of Special Projects and Mental Health, Dr. Tolu Ajomale provided insights into the state’s efforts to improve access to mental health services. Dr. Ajomale highlighted the launch of the mental health hotline, in April 2021, which has been instrumental in providing support to residents. He explained that the hotline was developed after extensive research, including lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The next phase of this initiative involves expanding access through the new smart number 0700 000 MIND (0700 000 6463) that will allow licensed counselors to work remotely, offering mental health support to both Lagos residents and individuals outside the state.

Dr. Ajomale emphasized the importance of connecting individuals with healthcare professionals who understand their cultural and social contexts, particularly those who may have relocated abroad but still wish to contribute to mental health care in Nigeria. He noted that Lagos is pioneering this initiative in Nigeria and across Africa, with the support and directive of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. “The aim is to increase investment in mental health care and provide services through various channels, including workplace and community programs, while integrating these efforts with clinical services”, he said.

The event featured a ceremonial release of green balloons, symbolizing hope and resilience in the face of mental health challenges. Attendees were encouraged to participate in this gesture as a demonstration of their commitment to lifting the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

The “Lift Up Hope” event was a significant step in promoting mental health awareness in Lagos State, highlighting the critical importance of supporting the mental well-being of individuals and communities alike. With ongoing initiatives and increased awareness, stakeholders are hopeful for a future where mental health is prioritized and stigma is eradicated.

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