THE Lagos State Government has expressed concern on the growing incidences of suicide attempts and as such has promised to educate members of the public on suicide and common causes with a view to stemming the spate of suicides and suicidal attempts recorded in the State in the past few weeks.

Jide Idris, state commissioner for Health, made this known at a press briefing on mental health to commemorate the year 2017 World Health Day with the theme “Depression: Let’s Talk”.

Idris stated that suicide could be committed by people of all ages and listed its common causes as inability to deal with life stresses such as financial problems, relationship breakup, chronic pain and illness, adding that individuals experiencing conflicts, disaster, violence, abuse or loss and a sense of isolation are strongly associated with suicidal behaviour.

The commissioner noted that suicide rates are also high amongst vulnerable groups who experience discrimination such as refugees, migrants and prisoners, just as he said that depression tops the list of common causes of suicides.

According to him, depression is a common mental disorder, characterized by sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, feelings of guilt or low self-worth, disturbed sleep or appetite, feelings of tiredness and poor concentration.

“Globally, more than 300 million people of all ages suffer from depression which is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and is a major contributor to the overall global burden of disease,” he said.

While saying that more women are affected by depression than men, the commissioner posited that depression can be long-lasting or recurrent, substantially impairing an individual’s ability to function at work or school or cope with daily life and can have devastating consequences for families, friends, communities and workplaces.

He stressed the need for coordination and collaboration amongst various sectors of the society including health, education, labour, justice, law, politics and the media, explaining that people suffering from depression need support to be courageous, come out to talk about it and shun the fear of stigmatization and discrimination.

He disclosed that the state government had set up helplines – 08058820777 and 09030000741 – through which residents can ask questions, make inquiries and seek help from professionals early enough to allow for appropriate intervention.

“I must stress that there are people available to help. So, “Let’s Talk” …if you are a student, “Let’s Talk”, if you are a parent, “Let’s Talk”, “If you feel alone in the world, Let’s Talk,” he stated.

Also present at the press briefing were Modele Osunkiyesi, permanent secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health; , Dr. Atinuke Onayiga, permanent secretary,  Primary Health Care Board; Jemilade Longe, permanent secretary, Health Service Commission, and Abiodun Adewuya of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH, amongst others.

He said it would be an understatement to say that Nigerian students were gratified by Danwambo’s leadership style and giant strides in developmental politics.

NANS said it was pleased that Ekiti State University (EKSU) recognised the qualities and conferred him with honorary doctorate degree alongside such eminent leaders as Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi 11 and Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State.

Obasi said, “In character and learning, Governor Dankwambo has distinguished himself and made himself a model for young people who believe in hardwork, honesty and are determined to make the best out of life through education and sound personal principles.

“For a young man to serve as the Accountant-General of the Federation and two terms as governor without being loud and arrogant shows a streak of genius and self realization, all pointing to the fact that Dankwambo stands out as a role model for Nigerian students and youth.

“The Gombe State governor’s life story gives hope to long suffering Nigerian students going through tough times in the nation’s tertiary institutions that their tomorrow will be better if they continue on the path of peace and academic excellence.”

—  Apr 10, 2017 @ 19:30 GMT

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