The Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria (APN) has called for the establishment of grief counselling support services in schools across the country to address the psychological well-being of students.

Prof. Taiwo Obindo, the National President of the APN, made the appeal on Sunday during a news conference at the conclusion of the association’s 55th Annual General and Scientific Meeting in Ilorin.

He noted that the absence of structured grief counselling in schools has left many students vulnerable to the adverse effects of trauma and loss.

“Grief counselling in schools is essential for helping children cope with adversity and develop critical social and emotional skills,” Obindo said.

He stressed the profound impact of childhood trauma on mental health, noting its link to psychological distress and low self-esteem in adolescents.

He highlighted the urgent need for intervention to prevent conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.

“The high prevalence of mental health conditions underscores the need for improved mental health services. Governments at all levels, with international support, should develop robust systems for early detection and intervention for both mental and physical health conditions,” Obindo said.

He also advocated experiential mental health training for medical students, particularly at the early stages of their education, and urged the government to prioritize funding for mental health services.

Obindo further emphasized the need to establish mental health desks to implement the provisions of the Mental Health Act, adding that integrating mental health services into primary healthcare settings, as outlined in the 2023 Mental Health Policy, would help bridge the current gaps in mental healthcare access.

He lamented the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly in rural areas, noting that this hinders help-seeking behaviors.

“The stigma attached to mental health must be addressed through public education campaigns to reduce discrimination and raise awareness about mental health,” Obindo said.

The APN president called on stakeholders to collaborate in providing better access to mental health resources and training, particularly for underserved communities.