Mental health is something we often take for granted, even though it has a profound effect on how we live, work, and interact with the world. It guides our thoughts, behaviors, and decisions, yet in the busy rhythm of daily life, we often overlook it. Whether you’re a student trying to meet deadlines, a young professional climbing the corporate ladder, or someone navigating personal relationships, the demands can sometimes feel overwhelming. The need to be successful, productive, and constantly available is so ingrained in our society that we forget one crucial thing: your mental well-being is just as important as your physical health.
In a world where people are constantly encouraged to work harder and achieve more, it’s no surprise that mental health struggles are often left unspoken. In fact, for many young Nigerians, discussing mental health remains a taboo subject. There’s this underlying expectation that you should always be strong, always be okay, and always have it together. The truth, however, is that life isn’t always easy, and neither is maintaining your mental health. Just like we’re expected to take care of our bodies, we must also nurture our minds.
The problem with not addressing mental health concerns is that it often starts small but can quickly escalate. You might feel stressed out, fatigued, or find it hard to focus, but you push those feelings aside because you don’t have time to deal with them. You might be experiencing moments of sadness or anxiety but chalk it up to a “bad day” or “normal stress.” But those “bad days” can pile up, and suddenly, it feels like you’re drowning in an ocean of worry, doubt, and exhaustion.
Understanding Mental Health Struggles
Recognising when you’re struggling is the first step toward taking care of your mental health. Mental health isn’t just about extreme conditions like depression or anxiety—it’s about how you feel, think, and behave every day. It’s about how you handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. It can look like feeling constantly overwhelmed, having trouble sleeping, losing motivation, feeling disconnected from others, or even physical symptoms like headaches or stomach problems. All of these are signs that your mental health may need attention.
Unfortunately, there’s a lack of awareness and understanding when it comes to mental health in Nigeria. Many people still view mental health struggles as a sign of weakness, and that’s why they’re swept under the rug. However, not addressing these issues can lead to long-term consequences. Untreated mental health struggles can affect your ability to perform at work or school, damage your relationships, and even lead to physical health problems. It’s time we start thinking about mental health in the same way we think about physical health. Just as we go for check-ups at the doctor, we should be just as diligent about checking in on our mental health.
The Importance of Self-Care
One of the simplest and most effective ways to prioritise mental health is to practice self-care. This doesn’t always mean going on a spa day or taking an expensive vacation (although those can help too if you can afford it!). Self-care can be as simple as taking a break from your routine, setting boundaries at work, seeking support from friends and family, or seeking professional help when you need it. It’s about permitting yourself to rest without guilt, about recognising when you need help, and about understanding that it’s okay to not always be okay.
In the fast-paced environment that many young Nigerians find themselves in, self-care is often pushed to the back burner. But taking care of yourself—whether it’s through physical activity, hobbies, journaling, or simply being kind to yourself—can make a huge difference. It’s essential to take the time to recharge your mind and body, even if it feels like there’s no time. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Seeking Help When You Need It
Seeking help for mental health issues is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength. Talking to a therapist, counselor, or even a trusted friend or mentor can be incredibly beneficial. In fact, therapy is one of the most effective ways to manage mental health and gain insights into the root causes of your struggles. While talking about mental health may still be stigmatised in some communities, that needs to change. By speaking openly about our challenges, we can not only help ourselves but also encourage others to seek the support they need.
In recent years, there has been a shift towards more open conversations about mental health, especially with social media platforms providing a space for people to share their stories. This is an important step in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health struggles. More and more young Nigerians are opening up about their experiences, and this is helping to normalise the conversation around mental well-being.
Building a Mental Health-Friendly Environment
As we move forward, we must create an environment where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health. Employers, schools, and communities should work to create support systems that allow individuals to talk about mental health openly. Organisations should provide mental health resources, create stress-relieving programs, and encourage their employees or students to prioritise their well-being.
For young Nigerians, this might mean pushing back against the cultural norms that view mental health struggles as a taboo. It might mean being brave enough to ask for help when it’s needed and being open enough to discuss your struggles without shame. By normalising these conversations and offering support, we can start to create an environment that fosters healthier minds and, ultimately, more productive and happier lives.
Conclusion: Mental Health is Key to Success
Prioritising mental health isn’t just about avoiding burnout or handling stress better; it’s about setting yourself up for long-term success and happiness. It’s about recognising that your worth isn’t defined by how much you do or how much you achieve. Your mental health is the foundation upon which your life is built, and without it, everything else becomes harder to maintain.
Let’s stop letting mental health struggles go unnoticed. Let’s break the silence and make mental health a priority. When we take care of ourselves, we set the stage for greater personal growth, more meaningful relationships, and a brighter future. Prioritse your mental health—it’s your most valuable asset.