What is Yoga: 6 Major Benefits of Yoga on Your Mental Health

Many people see Yoga as just an exercise to help you become more flexible, build strength and improve your physical health.

However, beyond these physical benefits, Yoga can also play a positive role on your mental well-being.

Therefore, in this article, we will consider what Yoga entails and some of the benefits that Yoga can have on your mental health.

                     What is Yoga?

The term ‘Yoga' comes from the Sanskrit word ‘yuj’ which means ‘union’ or ‘bind’. It is a practice that originated from India.

Yoga combines physical poses, meditation techniques and breathing exercises which benefits both the mind and the body.

These physical movements or poses in Yoga helps to improve your body flexibility. On the other hand, the meditation and breathing exercises in Yoga improve your brain and mental health. This is why Yoga is called a mind-body exercise i.e both your mind and your body benefits.

It is also a good physical activity that can help in reducing blood pressure, back pain, etc.

Yoga is recognized as one of the most popular physical practices in the world today. A 2024  survey revealed that in the US alone, 35 million people practice yoga regularly.

Yoga sessions/classes are usually led by yoga trainers or teachers whether in a group or individual yoga session.

                  What to Expect in a Yoga Session?

Yoga is s a combination of different types of activities. They include:

  1. Yoga Poses or Movements: These are physical movements that helps you build strength and flexibility. Some Yoga poses are:
  • Planks,
  • Chair pose,
  • Mountain pose,
  • Triangle pose, etc.

There are several yoga poses that can be found online which you can practice even at home.

  1. Breathing Exercises/ Yogic Breathing - This is an important part of Yoga where you practice breathing techniques which matches your physical movements.
  2. Yoga Meditation: Here, meditation is paired alongside physical yoga practices. It involves focusing on a particular object, mantra or activity with the aim of clearing your mind.

These meditations are usually done at the end of a yoga session.

ALSO READ: 10 Amazing Benefits of Meditation on Your Mental and Physical Health

                     What to Bring When Attending a Yoga Class.

Whether you are taking a public or private yoga class or even doing it in your home, there are certain items you must prepare especially if you are a beginner. Some of them are

  1. A yoga mat,
  2. A water bottle filled with warm water,
  3. Comfortable and loose clothes,
  4. Towels or face wipes, etc.

                 6 Major Benefits of Yoga on Your Mental Health

  1. Yoga reduces depression: Participating in a Yoga session is a recognized way to reduce depression. According to research, Yoga can be a mental health treatment just like therapy.
  2. It reduces anxiety: Doing Yoga can make you feel less anxious. Yoga is a focused-based activity which combines physical movements, breathing techniques and meditation etc.

When you find yourself anxious or constantly worrying, participating in a yoga session can calm your mind and help you let go of your anxieties.

  1. It boosts your mood: Practicing Yoga can improve your mood and make you happy. When you practice yoga, your body releases chemicals like Dopamine, Serotonin which can boost your mood and make you feel lighter and happier.
  2. Yoga can help you relieve stress: When you find it hard to cope with the demands of work and life, taking a yoga class is a self-care practice you should consider.

The calm and positive environment of yoga classes combined with several yoga poses will help you calm your mind and reduce the tension in your body.

  1. Yoga strengthens your brain muscles: When you practice yoga, your mental capacity improves. Whether its your memory or thinking skills, Yoga has a positive effect.

It sharpens your mind and helps you think clearly. Studies have shown that people who do yoga regularly have a sharper mind and improved memory compared to people who don’t.

So, Yoga is not just an activity that improves your physical flexibility but also your mind.

  1. Yoga helps you sleep better: Like any other exercise, doing yoga regularly can help you sleep better and reduce insomnia.

According to Healthline, taking Yoga classes can improve your sleep quality and quantity.

                             Register for Our Yoga Class in Lagos

Starting a yoga habit is a good way to take care of your mental and physical health at the same time.

To help you take the first step on building a yoga habit, register here for our upcoming soiree where several self-care practices including yoga would be organized.

This event will take place on 5th October 2024. It will hold between the hours of 4pm-6pm at the Happiness Center, 320 Akin Ogunlewe street, Victoria Island, Lagos. Register here to attend.

 

by Sarah Agagu

Group Reflections: 5 Reasons Why You Should Participate

The discussion around mental health has risen over the years as many people come to the realization that taking care of their mental health is also as important as taking care of their physical well-being.

Participating in a group reflection is one of the activities that can improve your mental state. It offers a unique opportunity to understand your emotions, share your experiences, stories and receive support and guidance within a group setting.

In this blog post, you will learn about group reflection, what it entails and reasons why you should participate in a group reflection.

                              Group Reflection

Group reflection is a collaborative activity where individuals come together to share their thoughts and feelings about their experiences and challenges, particularly related to their mental well-being.

In a group reflection, members share their experiences, challenges and stories among themselves. They also receive advice, support and constructive feedbacks on how to handle those situations.

Examples of challenges or stories that members can talk about in a group reflection are parenting challenges, academic struggles, relationship conflicts, work-life balance, etc.

                        How is a Group Reflection Done?

There is no specific way or structure in which a group reflection can be done but it often involves:

  • Gathering participants willing to share their stories and experiences.
  • Setting ground rules to ensure a smooth and tension-free discussion.
  • Starting a discussion among members.
  • Listening to members' stories and experiences and gathering key takeaways and conclusions for everyone to learn.

ALSO READ: 10 Self-Care Practices to Help you Relax and Unwind

                 5 Reasons Why You Should Participate in a Group Reflection

  1. Learning and Growth: When you participate in a group reflection, you learn from others and receive suggestions, support and guidance on your situation. You also gain knowledge about other perspectives in a situation.

For example, in a group reflection, where someone is sharing his/his relationship struggles, you get to learn from them and hear different views which helps you grow mentally and emotionally.

  1. Problem Solving Strategies: Participating in a group reflection opens your eyes to different strategies, approaches that you can use to handle your own situation.

For example, if you are experiencing some parental challenges, you can learn from others who faced it in the past and see how they handled and overcome it.

  1. Identification of Growth and Development Gaps: Participating in a group reflection will help you to notice and pinpoint areas of your life that you need to change and improve.
  2. Improved Self-Awareness: Group Reflections are one of the best ways to learn more about yourself. Hearing other people's stories, ideas, experiences can help you come to terms with your own experiences and beliefs.
  3. Sense of Belonging and Community: In a group reflection, you get to listen to experiences and stories from people who have faced similar situations as yourself. This creates a sense of belonging and helps you realize that you're not alone.

                 Come and Join Us

Joining a group reflection can be a transformative experience for your mental and emotional well-being.

This is why Mycarebuddy  in collaboration with the Happiness Center will be hosting a group reflection along with other self-care activities on 5th October 2024. It will hold between the hours of 4pm-6pm at the Happiness Center, 320 Akin Ogunlewe street, Victoria Island, Lagos. Register here to be a part of an amazing experience.

                             Conclusion

Sharing your stories and struggles and listening to others tell theirs in a group reflection not only helps you to overcome those struggles but it also benefits your mental well-being.

Register here for a group reflection  and enjoy an experience that would transform your emotional and mental state.

by Sarah Agagu

Professional Therapy: Why You Should See a Therapist

In today’s fast-paced world, the challenges of daily life can often feel overwhelming and cause us to struggle with stress, anxiety, etc. Choosing to undergo professional therapy is a major way for us to handle these issues that affects our mental health.

Therapy offers a supportive space to explore these issues and develop healthy ways to cope with them.

In this blogpost, we will consider what professional therapy entails, signs you should see a therapist and its benefits.

                      Professional Therapy

Professional Therapy or Talk therapy is a mental health treatment where you meet with a mental health professional usually called a therapist, to discuss about your own struggles, feelings, etc., that affect your mental health and receive support and advice from them on how to handle these issues.

In a therapy session, you and your therapist have a conversation in a safe space where you can unload your honest feelings and emotions without fear of being judged. Your therapist not only listens to you but also recommend healthy ways you can handle those situations.

 

ALSO READ: 4 Misconceptions about Mental Health as a Nigerian

 

                11 Signs You Need to See a Therapist

Here are some signs that it is time for you to consider professional therapy:

  1. You are feeling depressed.
  2. You feel stressed and anxious.
  3. You are experiencing changes in your life like a divorce, new job, etc.
  4. You are addicted to alcohol or drugs.
  5. You feel a sense of helplessness and hopelessness in your life.
  6. You find it difficult to balance the demands of your personal life and your work.
  7. You have a mental health disorder like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, etc.
  8. You have low self-esteem.
  9. You are experiencing conflicts in your relationships.
  10. You are experiencing trauma e.g., rape trauma, childhood trauma, etc.
  11. You are having thoughts of suicide or self-harm.

These and many more are some of the signs that you should consider seeing a therapist.

 

ALSO READ : The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Therapy as a Nigerian

 

                      Where Can You Find a Therapist

Your therapist must be someone who has actually been trained. Just because a person is good at giving advice, does not mean him/her is a therapist

To find a qualified therapist for yourself, you may need to visit mental health organizations and centers.

You can also search online for qualified therapists. A good mental health organization where you can find qualified therapists is Mycarebuddy.

Our therapists are highly trained to listen and proffer guidance and solutions to your situations and challenges.

Whether you want to undergo online therapy or face-to-face therapy, we are more than happy to help. You can book your first appointment here.

Things to Know When You Decide to Undergo Therapy

If you have never seen a therapist, you might feel overwhelmed about seeing one. However, it is not as difficult as it sounds.

In fact, seeing a therapist can be one of the best things you can do for your overall well-being so you should not be afraid or anxious about it. Here are some things to know when you decide to undergo therapy -

  • You will be asked questions that would encourage you to talk about yourself and identify your problem. These questions are not to mock or embarrass you.
  • Your discussion with your therapist is a confidential one so do not be afraid of being judged.
  • Your therapist is there to provide a listening ear so feel free to talk about your struggles, emotions and feelings.
  • Your problem or reason for attending therapy would not be solved on the first session. Therapy is an ongoing process not an instant problem solver.

 

   5 Benefits of Professional Therapy to You

Some of the numerous benefits of therapy are:

1. It helps you to understand your situation and develop healthy coping mechanisms to handle them-

For example, through therapy, you can learn how to cope with situations like grief, divorce in a way that is healthy and not self-sabotaging.

  1. It helps you build and maintain a better relationship with your partner, family, children and your friends-

For example, if you are facing some conflicts in your relationship with your partner, therapy can help you understand and handle the situation in a better way.

  1. Therapy can increase your self-awareness and self-esteem-

In therapy, you look deeply into yourself and your beliefs. You also get to reflect and analyze your actions and words with the guidance of your therapist.

The result of these is that you become more self-aware and connected to your inner self.

  1. Therapy will help you treat your mental health disorders-

According to the WHO, one in eight people in the world have a mental health disorder. This is why therapy is very important.

In therapy, your therapist will guide you and help you treat your mental health concerns using recognized mental health techniques.

  1. Undergoing Therapy will increase your productivity at work-

Therapy is a good way to address all the stress from work and prevent burnout.

In therapy, you learn different ways on how you can strike a balance between your work and your life without getting burnout.

                        Take Your First Step

Therapy is not a one-time thing but attending a therapy session can be your first step towards healing, finding balance and recovery.

This is why Mycarebuddy in collaboration with the Happiness Center will be hosting a professional therapy session along with other self-care activities on 5th October 2024. It will hold between the hours of 4pm-6pm at the Happiness Center, 320 Akin Ogunlewe street, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Register here and attend your first therapy session.

                         Conclusion

Working with a therapist is one of the best decisions you can make for your life. It will help you develop a better and stronger relationship with yourself and your loved one. It will also help you build resilience and emotional stability.

by Sarah Agagu

10 Amazing Benefits of Meditation on Your Mental and Physical Health

When you are feeling stressed or just need a break from your daily routine, you should consider meditating.

Meditation helps you relax and unwind from a long day. It can also reduce tension from your body and help you calm your mind.

There are so many benefits of meditation on your physical and mental health and we will consider 10 of those benefits in this article.

Let’s begin.

                    What is the Meaning of Meditation?

In recent years, meditation has become a major practice highly recommended by a lot of health professionals and organizations.

It is the practice of focusing on your thoughts and feelings in the present moment. Healthline defines it as the habitual process of training your mind to focus and redirect your thoughts.

Meditation involves focusing your mind on a single action, thought, object or sound.

Despite the many benefits of meditation, it is a cost-free activity. Meditation can be done anywhere. You can do it indoors or outdoors. You can also do it anytime either in the day or before going to bed.

Meditation can also be done alone or as a group. What matters is that you do it in a quiet environment.

                        Types of Meditation

There are several types of meditation but the most popular meditation techniques are:

  1. Guided Meditation/Visualization: Here, you focus on a mental image or thing. This process can also be led by a teacher.
  2. Mantra Meditation: In this type of meditation, your mind is focused on a particular word or phrase.
  3. Mindfulness Meditation: This is one of the most common types of meditation. This type of meditation is when you focus on the present i.e you become more aware of the present. It is a mindful from of meditating.

                         How Meditation Works

As mentioned earlier, during meditation, you focus on one thing alone and rid your mind of all distracting thoughts.

There are a lot of meditation techniques but it is best that you consider simpler techniques at the beginning.

Here are the steps for a simple meditation session:

Step 1

Set a time limit for your meditation session. If you're just starting out, consider meditating between 5 minutes to 10 minutes.

Step 2

Sit or stand in a quiet environment. It is best to keep your eyes closed.

Step 3

Focus your attention on your breathing or body sensations. Try to empty and calm your mind

Step 4

Do this continuously. Whenever you get distracted or start thinking about something, try to draw your attention back.

Note: Your mind might wander at the beginning but as you try to meditate daily, you will get better and be less distracted.

 

ALSO READ : Mental Health Groups/Communities: How Can They Guide Through Life's Journey

 

10 Amazing Benefits that Meditation has on Your Mental and Physical Health

  1. Meditation helps you control your emotions: When meditating, you focus all your attention on the present moment and let go of negative emotions, worries etc.

According to a study, you feel less anger and stress when you meditate.

  1. Meditation helps you manage and reduce mental health issues like anxiety. When you meditate, you let go of your anxieties and worry less.
  2. Meditation improves your memory: Meditating regularly can increase your memory capacity and help you focus more. Furthermore, it helps to combat age-related memory loss.
  3. It helps you sleep better: Meditation can be very useful in enjoying a quality sleep. Meditating before bedtime helps you release tension from your body and reduce your stress levels. This reduces insomnia and helps you sleep quickly and much better.
  4. Meditation reduces stress: Stress is one of the major reasons why people meditate. It can help you to unburden the stress from your daily work and regain balance.

Through meditation, you get to focus on what truly matters and let go of stressful thoughts and worries either from your work, school etc.

  1. It increases your self-awareness: Meditation involves trying to focus on your thoughts and feelings in the present moment. It is a self-practice just like journaling that can help you understand yourself better, and gain more knowledge about your habits and thoughts.

When you meditate, you notice your thoughts about yourself and become more mindful of how you think of yourself.

  1. Meditation increases your attention span.: Currently, we are in a time of information overload and our attention span are very low. But with meditation, you would be able to keep your attention on certain things for a longer period of time. A study showed that meditating for 13mins daily can increase your attention span and memory capacity.
  2. Meditation increases your self-compassion: When you meditate daily, you are able to reflect on yourself, habits and your actions. This helps you to be more accepting of yourself and people around you.

Studies have shown that meditation can increase people's compassion towards themselves and others.

  1. Meditation reduces heart problems: Heart issues like high blood pressure can be decreased through meditation. Meditation reduces stress and relaxes your nerve signals, your blood pressure and heart rate is also lowered
  2. Meditation helps you to reduce negative emotions. As you meditate, your attention is set on a particular thought or action and this helps you empty your mind. With meditation, you can let go of negative emotions and embrace positive ones.

                Come Meditate with Us

Mycarebuddy in collaboration with the Happiness center will be hosting a meditation and yoga session along with other self-care activities on 5th October 2024. It will hold between the hours of 4pm-6pm at the Happiness Center, 320 Akin Ogunlewe street, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Register here and Join us for an evening of Meditation and Relaxation.

 

                Conclusion

Meditation can be the self-care practice your mental and physical health requires. To release tension from your daily activities and reduce stress, consider practicing meditation.

by Sarah Agagu

Back to School: 12 Essential Mental Health Tips for Students and Teachers

The school break has ended and both students and teachers are beginning a new academic year. Like any other place, schools have their own set of activities and responsibilities which can affect your mental health.

Whether you are a teacher trying to manage the academic and emotional needs of your students or a student balancing classes, assignments, taking care of your mental health is very important.

So, in this article, we will discuss 12 essential mental health tips that will help you take care of your mental health either as a student and as a teacher.

         6 Essential Mental Health Tips for Students

As a student, you have a lot of responsibilities for every academic session. Whether it's trying to get good grades, keeping up with classes, meeting new teachers and students or even reuniting with familiar faces, the back-to-school experience can sometimes be both stressful and overwhelming.

To avoid feeling pressured by all these responsibilities, it is very important that you learn to prioritize your mental well-being. Here are 6 mental health tips to help you do that:

  1. Organize your Time Effectively: For a student, time management is one of the most important skills you need to balance all your school responsibilities without being stressed out. You need to know how to manage and allocate your time between attending classes, doing assignments and extracurricular activities.

To do this, create a daily schedule and allocate a time to study, do your homework and assignments, relax, etc.

  1. Practice Self-Care: Self-care include activities that you can do to help you relax and unwind. Everyone has to make time for self-care including you, so you don't get pressured or frustrated by academic activities

As a student, some self-care practices you can do are:

  • Taking part in sports like football, basketball, etc.
  • Exercising e.g taking a walk, running, etc.
  • Joining school clubs and associations e.g debate clubs.
  • Practicing relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, etc.
  • Journaling regularly.

Taking regular breaks is a good way to reduce stress and manage academic pressure. Remember, all work with no play makes jack a dull boy.

  1. Live a Balanced and Healthy Lifestyle: As a student, it is good to strive for academic success but you shouldn't get so obsessed with it to the point your health is affected.

For example, reading throughout the night without sleeping might benefit your academics but at the expense of your mental and physical health.

So, try to create a balance. Sleep at regular hours. Try to include healthy and nutritious foods in your diet like vegetables, fruits, etc.

Also try to exercise regularly and go outdoors.  This will improve your mood and help you relax.

  1. Set Realistic Goals: This is very important as a student. It is okay to have high academic goals but it should also be realistic. Setting an unrealistic academic goal can be very detrimental to your mental health and physical well-being.

For example, if you try to meet an unrealistic academic goal and it fails, you might get anxious and depressed. So you need to create a balance. Set goals that you can achieve without your health suffering from it.

  1. Ask for Help: As a student, your friends, parents and teachers are there for you. If you have problems in your academics or social interactions, tell your teachers and parents.

If you are finding it hard to cope with your academic responsibilities, do not be afraid to ask for help from your teachers, parents, counsellors etc.

You can even seek professional help. For example, at Mycarebuddy, we offer therapy services, academic guidance and emotional support to students.

  1. Connect and Relate: While it is good to focus on your academics, there is a place of social interactions. Do not be so obsessed with grades that you keep to yourself all the time.

Relate with your classmates and friends. This is very good for your mental health and it would help you improve your mood.

 

ALSO READ : 10 Self-Care Practices to Help You Relax and Unwind

 

                    6 Essential Mental Health Tips for Teachers

As a teacher, you also bear a significant portion of the demand and responsibilities of every academic session. Whether it's planning for the session, teaching or meeting your students' unique needs, starting a new academic session can be stressful especially after a long break.

This is why you must learn how to take care of your mental health even as you perform your teaching responsibilities. Here are 6 ways to do that:

  1. Practice Regular Self-Care: As a teacher, you are constantly trying to meet the many needs of your students while impacting knowledge. Sometimes it can be difficult for you to handle and you can get frustrated. This can ultimately less to burnout. This is why it is important that you take regular breaks to relax.

If you can't take breaks during the week, you can take breaks in the weekends. Try to do things that will help you relax such as:

  • Take regular walks and go outdoors.
  • Take up new hobbies and interests.
  • Listen to relaxing music.

There are several self-care practices you can consider. It could even be simple as sleeping. What matters is that it is intentional and help you unwind and feel good.

  1. Develop a Good Work-Life Balance: To take care of your mental health, you must be able to strike a balance between your personal life and your work as a teacher. Set regular boundaries between you and your students especially in your time off work.

If you are not able to strike this balance, you might end up getting burnout. One way you can do this to avoid or reduce interactions with parents and students on weekends or after school hours.

What matters is that you do not let your work as a teacher take up all your time or make you neglect your own life or family. Have a life outside teaching.

  1. Connect and Interact with Others: Social interaction is a very good way to lift your mood and relax. Meet with other teachers, your friends and families. Attend social events and meet with people outside school.
  2. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: An healthy lifestyle is key to having a good mental and physical health. The combination of a healthy diet, quality sleep and regular exercise will do wonders for your mental health.
  3. Manage Your Time: Organizing your time is very important as a teacher. From teaching, providing student support and even handling extracurricular activities, a teacher has so many responsibilities.

To avoid feeling stressed and anxious, you must learn to plan your time effectively.

  1. 6. Seek Mental Health Support: If you feel unhappy, frustrated or burnout from school and all its responsibilities, it is totally okay to seek help. Talk to fellow teachers and ask for help.

You can also reach out to mental health professionals. At Mycarebuddy , we offer both online and offline mental health services.

 

          Conclusion

Mental health should be a priority for you whether you are a student or teacher. By implementing these tips above ranging from time management, self-care, etc., you will be able to cope with the responsibilities of school life either as a teacher or student.

To receive mental health support, feel free to reach out to us. We offer quality mental health services both for students and teachers.

You can also join our mental health community and receive quality and empathetic mental health support  and resources.

by Sarah Agagu

10 Self-Care Practices to Help You Relax and Unwind

Practicing self -care is an amazing way to take care of your physical and mental health. As an adult, parent, employer/employee, setting time out for yourself is very important.

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, you can get stressed and tired. This is why it is very important that you take time to care for yourself and relax.

In this article, you will learn 10 self-care practices to help you unwind and relax from your busy schedule and daily life.

                5 Major Benefits of Self-Care

Self-care practices are things that we do to help us feel happy mentally and physically. It is the intentional act of taking care of ourselves.

There are a lot of benefits to self-care and some of them are:

1. Self-care helps you to refresh and constantly stay energized.

   Constantly working without timeouts is a recipe for burnout and breakdown. But when you practice regular self -care, you stay physically and mentally refreshed.

  1. It improves your mood.

Regular self-care is a good way to improve your mood and feel happy. Whether you choose to visit a therapist or attend a yoga session, you always leave with a sense of peace and relief, leaving you in a good mood.

3. It increases your productivity.

Either at work or in school, self-care helps you to do better and faster. After self-care, your mind is refreshed and energized which helps you to stay more focused and be more productive.

  1. Self-care helps you reduce stress and anxiety.

Pressure from work, school or our personal life can sometimes get too much for us to handle. It can leave us stressed and constantly worried. Practicing self-care will help us destress and reduce our anxieties.

  1. It helps you develop and maintain better relationships.

When you do not take time for self-care, your relationships are also affected. It can be emotionally draining for other people around you who have to cope with your mood swings and unhappiness. Therefore, regular self-care would put you in a good mood and leave you relaxed.

 

ALSO READ: Therapy for Nigerians: 7 ways therapy can change your life and where you can access it

 

         10 Self-Care Practices to Help You Relax and Unwind

There are a lot of self-care practices we can do to relax and unwind from a stressful week or schedule. Some of them include:

  1. Spend time outdoors: Constantly staying indoors is not good for your mental and social wellbeing. You need to connect with others no matter how busy you are.

You can decide to make time in the weekends to hang out with friends, attend social events, or even go for a simple walk.

  1. Take regular screen breaks: We are in the era where nearly everything we do is done online. Constantly staring at our phones, laptops, etc., can be very draining on our physical health and mental health.

This is why it is very important that we take regular breaks and connect with people face-to-face.

  1. Exercise regularly: Exercising regularly will help you take care of your mental health and physical health.

For persons who are constantly at their desk, exercise is a good self-care practice to help them unwind and relax. You can go for a run, join a gym, take a walk etc.

  1. Pursue new hobbies and interests: As mentioned earlier, self-care is an intentional act to take care of your physical and mental health. Taking up new hobbies would help you forget about your worries at work or school and leave you feeling relaxed.
  2. Therapy : Regular therapy sessions is very good for your mental health. Through therapy, you can talk about things that are burdening you and learn better ways to cope with them. In short, therapy sessions leave you feeling less burdened and more relieved.
  3. Better sleep: An healthy sleep routine is an underrated but important self-care practice. Having regular sleep daily boosts your mood and reduces your stress levels

7-8 hours is a good sleep time to aim for. If you can't do this during the week, then consider it during the weekends.

  1. Journaling: This is one of the major ways to practice self -care. Taking time from your busy schedule to relax and put down your thoughts, feelings, does so much for your health especially your mental health.

You get to reflect, analyze your feelings and find closure. So, get a journal now and start writing.

  1. Meditation: This is a practice where you try to focus and direct your thoughts to rid your mind of negative emotions and achieve a state of calm and clarity. It is a major self-care practice which can help you relax and unwind from a stressful schedule or routine.
  2. Yoga: This involves a series of physical activities, stretching, meditation, breathing techniques, etc., which can help your body build strength. It is a major activity that can help you relax and unwind from the stress of daily life.
  3. Read regularly: Reading interesting books like self-help books, fictions etc., is also a good self-care practice. When you read, you forget about your troubles or worries and get entertained or inspired.

To help you build a reading habit, you can join our mental community where we read and review amazing books for your mental health.

 

                Come, Relax and Unwind with Us

Mycarebuddy in collaboration with The Happiness Center will be hosting an evening of relaxation where self-care practices like professional therapy, meditation, yoga session etc., will be held.

It will hold on 5th October 2024 between the hours of 4pm-6pm at the Happiness Center, 320 Akin Ogun ewe street, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Register here and Join us for an Evening of Relaxation and Self-Care.

                 Conclusion

Self -care is no longer a luxury but a must. To reduce burnout, stress and even take care of others, you must prioritize your own self-care. After all, you can't give what you do not have.

As a parent, employee, employee, adult, teenager, you must learn to practice regular self-care to stay constantly relaxed and energized.

by Sarah Agagu

World Suicide Prevention Day 2024: Recognizing Signs of Suicide, Causes and Taking Action in Nigeria

World Suicide Prevention Day is observed all over the world on the 10th of September. It is a day dedicated to increasing awareness about suicide and promoting the importance of suicide prevention in the society.

Today is September 10 and this year's theme is Changing the Narrative on Suicide with the call to action - Start the Conversation.

This theme is aimed at encouraging more conversations about suicide and raising awareness about the importance of reducing it. On this day, we must have a conversation on the need to change how we think of suicide and shift from a culture of silence to one of understanding and support.

The call to action for this year's theme is Start the Conversation. This means we need to have more discussions around suicide in our society and break the barrier of silence and stigma around it.

So, in this article, you will learn about suicide in Nigeria, the myths around it, its signs and causes. You will also learn how to start the conversation around suicide and other suicide preventative measures.

      Suicide in Nigeria

Suicide is when someone dies by self-harm.  Wikipedia defines it as the act of taking one's own life. It is when someone harms his/herself with the intent to die e.g., jumping from a high place, taking dangerous substances like sniper, drugs, etc

Suicide is not specific to any age group, class, position. For example, in April, it was reported that a Deputy Commissioner of Police in Lagos, Nigeria took his own life. This goes to show that anyone can commit suicide regardless of position or class.

According to the WHO, there are more than 700,000 deaths by suicide globally every year. In Africa, Nigeria has one of the highest suicide rates.

There are several cases of persons committing suicide either due to depression, financial problems, breakups etc. In 2022, the Punch reported up to 79 cases of suicide and this number has dramatically increased over the years.

What Are the Warning Signs of Suicide?

There are no clear cut signs to tell if someone is considering suicide. However, there are certain warning signs that might give an indication such as

  1. Talking or thinking about death constantly.
  2. Making final preparations like saying goodbye to loved ones, writing a will, researching on suicide methods online, etc.
  3. Buying harmful substances like drugs, Sniper, etc.
  4. Expressing feelings of hopelessness or feelings of being trapped. e.g When someone constantly says' I am tired’. This might not be a reference for how they feel physically but how they feel regarding a situation.
  5. Constant mood swings.
  6. Isolation and withdrawal from friends and loved ones.
  7. Posting cryptic messages on their social media about death, hopelessness etc.
  8. Taking reckless or self-harming risks like drunk driving or speed driving, etc.

NOTE: If you find that someone shows any of the signs above, you should try to reach out to them. It should also be noted that these signs vary for different persons.

 

        Why would someone consider suicide?

A person could have suicidal thoughts or commit suicide for various reasons like:

  1. Physical abuse like bullying.
  2. Sexual abuse and emotional abuse.
  3. Debt or financial failures.
  4. Relationship breakdown like divorce, heartbreaks, etc.
  5. Mental health conditions like PTSD, depression, Substance Use Disorder, etc.
  6. Unemployment and poverty.
  7. Diagnosis of a terminal or incurable disease.
  8. Cultural or religious beliefs.
  9. Grief or death of a loved one.
  10. Alcohol or substance abuse.
  11. Academic pressure.

 

ALSO READ: 10 major benefits of joining an online mental health community

 

            Suicide Prevention Measures in Nigeria

   People consider suicide because they feel it is an end to a hopeless situation. However, no situation is hopeless. Here are a few ways on how we can reduce the risk of suicide in our society-

1. Start a Conversation

In line with the theme for this year, having discussions about suicide is one of the ways we can reduce the risk and stigma associated with it.

Having open conversations about suicide can help people who are feeling suicidal come forward and talk about it instead of resorting to self-harm.

Encourage people around you to talk about their struggles and what they are going through. If you notice any warning signs, reach out and offer a listening ear. This could go a long way in reducing risks of suicide in such persons.

Pay attention to the needs and behaviors of your loved ones. For example, if you notice anyone posting cryptic messages on their social media, reach out to them.

Also, do not be judgmental while having these conversations. Let your support come from a place of understanding and empathy.

You can also encourage them to reach out to mental health providers like therapists, counsellors etc. If they are feeling shy or scared of being judged, there are online mental health providers that they can reach out to and receive confidential care.

An example is Mycarebuddy. We offer quality mental health services to individuals, families, groups etc., and you can reach out to us.

You can also refer them to helplines that they can call or text and receive support.

No one is above feeling hopeless and having suicidal thoughts. So, try to be more understanding.

2. Mental Health Awareness and Education

There needs to be more sensitization of the public about mental health and mental wellness. Many Nigerians still perceive mental health issues as something to be ashamed about and this needs to stop.

The best way to do this is to increase awareness efforts on the discussions of mental health and mental health issues. These awareness campaigns must be done online and offline with stakeholders in the entertainment, cultural, religious, social scenes leading the charge.

3. Increased Mental Health Services

In Nigeria, mental health services are either inaccessible or unavailable. Many persons especially in the rural areas do not even know where mental health providers can be found.

Therefore, the government, NGOs, private organizations need to work together to expand mental health services in Nigeria.

Other Suicide Prevention Measures Include-

  1. Organizing more skill acquisition programs to reduce poverty and economic hardships in the country.

2.. Sensitizing the public on financial issues like loans, etc.

  1. Publicizing the existence of helplines for people who are feeling suicidal.
  2. Establishment of mental health support groups and communities where individuals can be educated on mental health, suicide, etc.

              Mycarebuddy can Help

Mycarebuddy is a mental health organization in Nigeria that offers mental health services like therapy, trainings, mental health resources, etc.

You can reach out to us here if you or any of your loved one is having suicidal thoughts or just going through a hard time.

You can also join our mental health community and receive support, resources all aimed at supporting your mental health.

              Conclusion

Suicide is preventable not inevitable. Everyone including the government, churches, mosques, families have a role to play in reducing and preventing the incidence of suicide in Nigeria.

So, as we observe the World Suicide Prevention Day, let us commit to raising awareness, supporting mental health initiatives, and promoting open conversations to reduce the risk of suicide and other mental health issues in our country.

by Sarah Agagu

International Overdose Awareness Day 2024: Addressing the Drug Abuse Crisis in Nigeria

August 31 is globally recognized as the International Overdose Awareness Day. It is a day dedicated to create awareness on drug overdose and drug abuse and other harmful effects of drug abuse.

It is also a day to remember those who have lost their lives due to drug overdose and encourage support for people who are in recovery or have been affected by drug use.

The theme for this year's International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is "Together We Can". This means that to stop drug overdose and other harmful effects of drug abuse, all hands must be on deck.

So, in this article, you will learn about drug overdose and drug abuse in Nigeria, its impact and how we can all contribute to its reduction in Nigeria.

                      Drug Abuse and Drug Overdose in Nigeria

Drug Abuse

Drug abuse is the excessive consumption of substances like alcohol, cocaine, heroin, cannabis, etc., or the misuse of prescription drugs like cough syrup, tranquilizers, etc.

A 2018 report showed that drug abuse was prevalent among an estimated 14 million Nigerians. Unfortunately, that number has skyrocketed today.

In 2021, the National Drug Law enforcement Agency (NDLEA) revealed that 40% of youths between 18-35 were deeply involved in drug abuse. This is how dire the drug abuse crisis in Nigeria is.

Drug Overdose

Drug Overdose in simple terms is when a person has excess substances or drugs in his/her body system. It is a very serious issue as it can easily lead to death.

Drug Overdose is a very terrible reality in our world today. In America, up to 107,543 people died from drug overdose in 2023.

Drug Overdose has also caused a lot of deaths in Nigeria. Earlier this year, a student of University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) died of an overdose of Colorado, an illegal drug popularly known as "colos"or "spice".

This is just one of many incidents of drug overdose in Nigeria.

Drug Overdose can be caused by a number of reasons like taking excessive substances or drugs, taking medications with alcohol, etc.

           How Can You Recognize a Drug Overdose?

Below are a few signs that can tell you if a person is experiencing a drug overdose-

  1. Dilated eyes.
  2. Nausea and vomiting.
  3. Chest pain.
  4. Slow or difficult breathing.
  5. Confusion and disorientation.
  6. Limp body.
  7. Unresponsive but awake.
  8. Loss of consciousness.

NOTE: These symptoms vary depending on each person.

 

Examples of substances or drugs which can also cause a drug overdose is Heroin, Cocaine, Codeine, Tramadol, Arizona, etc.

               What Should You Do in The Case of a Suspected Overdose

Here are a few steps to take if you suspect that someone is experiencing a drug overdose:

  1. Do not leave the person alone.
  2. Do not try to induce or cause them to vomit.
  3. Do not give the person something to drink or eat.
  4. Move the person to a quiet place.
  5. Call for an ambulance or take them to the nearest hospital or clinic.

            Factors That Have Contributed to The Drug Abuse Crisis in Nigeria

There are a lot of reasons why Nigerians abuse drugs or take substances. Some of them are:

  1. Cost of living in Nigeria.
  2. Insufficient knowledge of the harmful effects of drug abuse.
  3. The glamorizing of drug use by the entertainment industry.
  4. Peer Pressure, etc.

Here is a brief explanation some of these factors:

  1. a) Cost of Living in Nigeria: The serious effects of the economic recession in Nigeria has driven many to take illegal drugs. The frustration and pain of being unable to afford three square meals a day for many and their families, has led to drug abuse.

Many Nigerians have resorted to drugs to numb their pain and frustrations at the situation of the country.

  1. b) Insufficient Knowledge of the Harmful Effects of Drug Abuse: Many people especially youths take drugs due to inadequate knowledge of its negative and harmful consequences.

Drug abuse ruins a person's life financially, mentally and physically. Its harmful effects can even extend to families and loved ones.

  1. c) The Glamorizing of Drug Abuse by the Entertainment Industry: In Nigeria, many popular stars sing songs about drug use and sometimes publicly abuse drugs.

Some musicians even use drugs to get inspiration for their music. This makes it look as if drug abuse is a cool thing to take part in and this has led many Nigerians to abuse drugs.

 

ALSO READ: Online v In-Person Support Groups/Communities: Choosing the Right Format for Your Mental Health Needs.

 

Consequences of Drug Abuse.

Drug abuse can have a lot of negative effects on a person physically, mentally and socially. Here are few of these effects:

Physical and Mental Effects of Drug Abuse

  • Liver Damage.
  • Respiratory Problems.
  • Heart Attack and Stroke.
  • Risk of Drug Overdose and Death
  • Increase in Anxiety and Depression.
  • Memory Loss and Cognitive Impairments.

Social Effects of Drug Abuse

  • Relationship Breakdown.
  • Family Conflicts.
  • Inability to Focus at Work, School, etc.
  • Stigmatization and Discrimination.
  • Financial Strains.
  • Loss of Work.
  • Legal Problems.

 

                   How Can We Address the Drug Abuse Crisis in Nigeria?

As stated earlier, the theme of this year's International Overdose Awareness Day is "Together We Can". This means that to address the drug abuse crisis in Nigeria, everyone has a role to play.

  1. Government, Groups, Organizations-
  2. Education and Sensitization: Government, policy makers, ministries, activists etc, should increase the education and sensitization of members of the society on the terrible effects of drug abuse. This outreach must be done online and offline.

It should also extend to all areas including rural areas, schools, higher institutions, churches, etc. Adequate publicity should also be done to reduce the stigma associated with drug abuse.

A study carried out by the National Bureau of Statistics and United Nations Drug Office on Drugs and Crime revealed that stigma associated with substance use, was one of the major limitations discouraging drug users from seeking treatment in Nigeria.

  1. Establishment of Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers: More treatment centers should be established to ensure comprehensive care for drug abusers or addicts.

In Nigeria, drug treatment is usually carried out by tertiary hospitals, NGOs, churches., etc which makes their services limited.  Even government facilities do not have enough qualified staff to care for people with drug abuse disorders.

It is therefore very important that treatment centers provide more comprehensive care. Beyond detoxification and counseling, they should also offer rehabilitation and relapse services for drug users.

  1. Reduced Cost of Treatment: Affordable treatment options should be provided for people with drug use disorders. The government can try to subsidize the cost of drug treatments to make it more affordable and accessible.
  2. Increased Efforts from Law Enforcement Agencies: Law enforcement agencies like National Drug Law enforcement Agency (NDLEA) should intensify their efforts in stopping and reducing drug trafficking in Nigeria.

 

B. Individuals-

  1. Parents must thoroughly educate their children on the harmful consequences of drug abuse. They must 'deglamorize' drug use from how it is painted by the media especially the music industry.

You must teach your children that taking drugs should never be an option to cope with life's challenges. Let them know that drug abuse ruin lives, families and increases the risk of overdose and death.

  1. As individuals, we must educate our colleagues, friends, families on the harmful effects of drug abuse. Through our social media, we can sensitize the people around us on the devastating effects of abusing drugs.

We should also encourage our friends and loved ones who use drugs to seek professional help and support them in their recovery journey.

                           Conclusion

Drug abuse is an issue that affects every member of the society one way or the other. Studies shows that 1 in 8 Nigerians experience the consequences of drug abuse, even due to other people's drug use.

It is therefore very important that every one - government, ministries, policy makers, Individuals come together to fight this issue that is killing many of our people.

               Mycarebuddy Can Help You

If you or your loved one is trying to recover or in the process of recovery from drug abuse, our qualified therapists are here to guide you on that journey. Feel free to approach us HERE.

Our mental health community is also always open to you. CLICK HERE to join our community- a safe space where your mental health needs are prioritized.

by Sarah Agagu

Online v In-Person Support Groups/Communities: Choosing the Right Format for Your Mental Health Needs.

Support groups and communities play a major role in helping you prioritize your mental well-being. With the rise of digital platforms like Discord, Telegram etc., you now have the option to join either an in-person mental health community or an online community.

In this blog, we will consider this two formats, helping you make an informed decision about which one best aligns with your mental health needs.

      Mental Health Groups/Communities

Choosing to join a mental health group/community can be a major step towards prioritizing your mental health.

Mental Health communities/groups are gatherings of individuals who are ready to prioritize their mental health. In these communities/groups, mental health support, resources and encouragement are provided to each member.

It is a safe space where members can share their experiences, doubts, fears, mental health issues and receive empathetic guidance and support.

A lot of mental health resources are usually provided to members of these groups like mental health webinars, videos, professional advice etc.

No matter what you're going through, belonging to a mental health community ensures you get guidance and support from like-minded people or individuals with same experiences.

5 Amazing Benefits of Joining a Mental Health Community

Joining a mental health community can have so many amazing benefits on your mental health and physical wellness. Some of them are:

  1. It reduces isolation and loneliness.
  2. It Increases your access to mental health resources like videos, articles, etc.
  3. It provides emotional support and guidance in your life journey.
  4. It teaches you better and healthy coping strategies.
  5. It acts as a safe space for you to express your feelings, emotions and tell your stories without fear.

Also Read : 10 Amazing Benefits of Joining an Online Mental Health Community

Types of Mental Health Community Formats

There are two major types of mental health community/support groups

  1. In-Person support groups.
  2. Online Support groups/communities.

                                In-Person Support Groups

These are face-to-face gatherings of individuals with same mental health experience. This groups are usually organized by mental health professionals for specific mental health issues.

Advantages-

In-Person mental health communities are more specific compared to online communities. For example, a support group could be created for only individuals trying to recover from an addiction. Another group can be created for individuals experiencing PTSD or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, etc.

There is also more personal connection involved since you get to meet others with similar experiences as yourself.

Disadvantages-

A major disadvantage to in-person support groups is the cost involved. Transportation and logistics costs can be a huge burden especially if you live in a rural environment or far location.

Also, there is less anonymity which means a risk that your shared experience can be leaked out beyond the group.

                      Online Support Groups/Communities

Online mental health communities are online spaces where you connect with other members going through similar mental health experiences as yours.

Online communities became very popular during the COVID-19 pandemic and its popularity has only continued to increase further with the advancements in technology. These communities are usually hosted on online platforms like Telegram, WhatsApp, Facebook etc.

In this communities, people going through stress, anxiety, burn out, grief, trauma etc., receive emotional support and guidance to navigate those situations.

An example of an online mental health community in Nigeria is the Mycarebuddy mental health community hosted on Telegram.

Advantages-

Compared to in-person communities, an online mental health group is usually cheaper. Transportation and other logistics costs are also eliminated since you can easily gain access to these communities online.

Furthermore, since all you need is a good internet connection, you can access resources and guidance at anytime and anyplace without delay.

Also, all physical barriers to accessing mental health care are eliminated. This is a major advantage for individuals who live in rural areas.

Online support groups also provide a level of anonymity for group members compared to in-person support groups. You can easily share your experiences and feelings without fear of judgement or criticism.

It is also less specific compared to face-to-face groups. This means that you can share and receive guidance on any issue affecting your mental health at any time in your life e.g work anxiety, depression, trauma, grief from losing a loved one, parenting issues, relationship conflicts, etc.

Disadvantages-

The major disadvantages to online mental health communities are poor internet connection and easy distractions.

However, this are mere trivialities. You can easily come back and access any resources or advice shared when you are free and less distracted.

         Choosing the Right format for your Mental Health Needs

There are certain things to consider in choosing whether to join an online or in-person mental health community. Some of them are:

  1. Your Goals: You must consider your goal for joining. If you hope to receive support and guidance for various issues like burnout, relationships, parenting, then an online mental health community is more suitable.

Online mental health groups are also more suitable if you are seeking a safe space to express your feelings and emotions and receive practical feedback.

However, if you have a specific mental health goal to achieve, then consider joining an in-person support group created for that particular goal.

  1. Physical Location: You might also need to consider your physical location before choosing whether to join an in-person or online community.

If you live in a rural or difficult to access location, an online mental health community is definitely your best option.

  1. Privacy Concerns: This is a very important factor in choosing whether to join an in-person support group or online community.

If you hope for a level of anonymity in sharing your experiences, then an online community may be more suitable for you.

                   Join the Mycarebuddy Mental Health Community

Our community is an online mental health space where you get unlimited access to premium mental health resources like articles, videos, expert-led webinars and masterclasses etc., at no or subsidized costs.

It is a community where you can share and receive support on whatever issues you might be going through in your relationships, family, work, etc.

Click here and Join our community today.

by Sarah Agagu

International Youth Day 2024: Addressing the Challenges Faced by Youths in Nigeria which Affects their Mental Health.

On August 12, the International Youth Day was globally celebrated. It is a day dedicated to acknowledging the efforts of youths in bringing change to the society.

It is also a day to bring awareness towards the challenges faced by youths globally.

Mental health has always been a major discussion among youths with suicide being the 4th leading cause of death among 15-29 year olds. According to a study, 1 in 6 Nigerians aged between 15-24 are depressed.

This is why the discussion on the mental health challenges of Nigerian Youths must be addressed.

So, in this article, we will examine some of the challenges faced by youths which affects their mental health and how they can be addressed.

Challenges Faced by Youths Which Affects their Mental Health

  1. Mental Health Disorders.
  2. Academic Pressure and Stress.
  3. Social Media Influence and Comparisons.
  4. Poverty and Unemployment.
  5. Substance Use Disorder.
  6. Peer Pressure and Bullying.
  7. Unhealthy Relationships/Domestic Violence.
  8. Family Conflicts/Dysfunctional Families.

 

(a). Mental Health Disorders: Mental health disorders are very common among young people in Nigeria compared to other age groups. Yet due to social stigma, inadequate access to mental health resources, low mental health awareness, these mental health issues are neglected and largely go untreated.

Many youths in our society are experiencing anxiety and depression but cannot speak up for fear of being ignored or stigmatized.

Furthermore, there is little or no awareness of other mental health disorders like Obsessive Compulsive Disorder(OCD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Prolonged Duress Stress Disorder(PTSD), eating disorders, Autism etc.

All these has led to increase in drug abuse, addictions and suicide among our youths.

(b). Academic Pressure and Stress: Many youths especially in higher institutions are under pressure by their parents, peers and the society to get good grades and perform excellently.

While it is good to encourage students to give their best, it can also be overdone.

Academic Pressure according to the National Institute of Health (NIH) is the tension, discomfort and other emotions caused by the pressure from school, family and society in the academic process.

When students feel excessively pressured to excel in their academic pursuits, it can cause anxiety, poor sleep quality, unhealthy competitions which can have a negative effect on their mental health.

Academic pressure can also cause depression, anxiety, substance use , stress and burn out, etc.

(c). Social Media Influence and Comparisons: Multiple studies suggest that there is a huge correlation of mental health issues with excessive social media use.

Social media like all technologies has its advantages and disadvantages. Social media helps people connect, share information, etc. Yet with its many benefits, it also has many negative mental health effects.

The youths bear the major brunt of these negative impacts as they spend more time on social media compared to other age groups.

Social media comparisons have many negative effects on youths like poor sleep quality, unhealthy life and body comparisons, cyberbullying etc.

Furthermore, the constant comparisons that happen on social media has led to low self-confidence and inferiority complexes among many youths.

These has led to an increase in depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and self-harm.

(d). Poverty and Unemployment: Each year, the higher institutions keep churning out graduates with no corresponding jobs for them.

Many youths in Nigeria find it very difficult to make ends meet and this has driven many into vices like prostitution, thuggery, violence, drug abuse, and alcoholism, 419 etc.

The effects of poverty and unemployment on many youths is that they experience depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, etc.

Also Read : 10 Major Benefits of Joining an Online Mental Health Community

 

      5 Ways to Address and Handle These Mental Health Challenges Faced by Youths

 

  1. Mental Health Awareness and Literacy

Youths and other age groups in the society must be properly educated on mental health disorders to help them identify and seek help.

Through social media, television and radio stations, more awareness campaigns must be carried out about various mental health disorders.

The stigma around mental health needs to be gradually broken down and seeking help or speaking out must be encouraged.

Youths and society as a whole must also be informed on how and where they can access mental health resources.

  1. Social Media Awareness and Use Campaigns

Social media awareness campaigns targeted towards youths must be carried out both online and offline.

The aim of this is to educate youths on the negative realities and the dangerous effects of trying to meet the unreal expectations of social media.

The youths should also be educated on how excessive social media use can impact their mental health and how they can set healthy boundaries.

3. Substance Use Education and Treatment

Drug and alcohol abuse is at an all time high among youths today. In 2018, statistics showed that drug abuse was prevalent in up to 14 million Nigerians . Due to economic hardships, that number has increased today with the youths taking the lead.

To combat the impacts of substance, use among our youths, substance use education programs must be carried in schools, higher institutions, social media etc.

Youths must also be educated on the detrimental effects of drug and alcohol abuse on their mental health, alongside guidance on accessing resources such as drug education programs, counseling centers, recovery clinics, and support groups.

4. Poverty Alleviation and Job Creation

The government must put extra efforts into job creation to reduce the number of unemployed youths in the country and reduce poverty.

Furthermore, skill acquisition trainings must be aggressively carried out by the government and other stakeholders to ensure that Nigerian youths have means of survival.

5. Increased Access to Mental Health Resources and Communities.

There needs to be more mental health clinics, programs and communities that would provide accurate mental health information to youths and guide them in making better choices related to their mental health.

     Join Our Mental Health Community Today

The Mycarebuddy mental health community is a safe space where like-minded individuals who truly care about their mental health come together to connect, learn, and access premium mental health resources. It is open to all age groups and individuals.

Join the Mycarebuddy mental health community today and get unlimited access to mental health resources like professional guidance, mental health articles and videos, mental health webinars and masterclasses, addiction recovery etc.

Click here to be a part of our community.

by Sarah Agagu