Posted by Nigerians have continued to respond favorably to President Muhammadu Buhari’s Friday presidential emphasis to the Mental Health Law.
In Osun, a doctor named Dr. Olakunle Omoteemi stated that the bill was long overdue because it would give those interested in that field the freedom to practice unencumbered.
He added that it will inform Nigerians of the risks involved with practices that could deteriorate mental health.
According to him, “because of the stigma associated with mental health concerns in Nigeria, the public continues to view every incidence related to it as one of lunacy.
“As a result of this unfavorable view, people are reluctant to disclose their mental health condition to others or to approach experts to do so.
“People frequently are unable to seek counseling because of societal prejudice. Additionally, it carries a stigma because people are terrified of being called specific names.
It is believed that this regulation would put an end to the stigma and discrimination associated with mental health disorders.
The doctor contacted states, in particular Osun, to domesticate the bill and provide aid to many people who are struggling with mental health problems.
In order to build relationships, he also urged people to assess and acknowledge their mental health.
“Many of the so-called lunatics we come across on a daily basis are not, to use the cliché, under spiritual attack. They are there because of their way of life.
“Some people are there because they once abused drugs. Some people visit because of personal problems, such as relationships. We witness people’s stupidity on the streets on a regular basis.
“Instead of seeking counseling and treatment, so many turn to prayer homes, where these victims are subjected to various forms of punishment, including whipping. The hope is that releasing some of them into society may hasten their recovery.
“Under this law, such mental health breakdown victims would be confined to mental hospitals, and families with such people would be required to release their members for appropriate therapy and counseling.”
The Lunacy Act of 1958 was the last piece of mental health legislation in Nigeria, according to human rights activist Hauwa Ojeifo. Because of this, activists like her have been fighting for respect for mental health laws and procedures that safeguard the dignity and freedom of people with psychosocial disabilities.
Meanwhile, Dr Ibrahim Oloriegbe, Senator representing Kwara Central in the Senate and originator of the Mental Health Bill on his Twitter handle said the bill was meant for the establishment and regulation of mental health and substance abuse services, protect persons with mental health needs.
He also stated that the ongoing effort to improve and regulate mental health and drug misuse services was what drove the need for the measure.
In his words, “The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, @MBuhari, has signed into law, a bill for an Act to provide for the establishment and regulation of mental health and substance abuse services, protect persons with mental health needs and establishment of National Commission for Mental and Substance Abuse Services, for the effective management of mental health in Nigeria, and other related matters.
”The bill which I sponsored, was necessitated by the enduring quest to make provision for the enhancement and regulation of mental health and substance abuse services and to cast aside the challenges that perpetuate the social stigma of the victims of mental illness.
” I explained that the proposal was intended to protect persons with mental health needs, and establish National Agency for Mental and Substance Abuse Services for effective management of mental health in Nigeria and other related matters, I further raised the absence of Mental Health Law in Nigeria other than the Regional Lunacy Law of 1918, which in context and content violated fundamental human rights of persons with mental health and psychosocial disabilities.”