Shades of Us, a non-governmental organisation, has decried the rising cases of mental health issues among Nigerian youths, calling for stronger advocacy and public awareness.
Ramatu Ochekliye, the Founder of the organisation, stated this shortly after showcasing a short film on Tuesday in Jos.The film, titled “The Dumps,”aims to sensitise the public—particularly young people—on the dangers of the stigma surrounding mental health.
Ochekliye explained that her organisation is using creative media to push for better understanding and education around mental health challenges.
“The dumps is a short film on mental health that addresses depression and suicide; it follows the journey of a young woman confronting depression and reclaiming her voice.
“In Shades of Us, we use film as a tool for social change and dialogue; this is why we are in Jos to provide ways where young people can unpack the stigma surrounding mental health and explore pathways for healing.
“We know Jos to be a creative space, but with the decades of the security challenges, young people are sliding into depression and in some cases committing suicide.
“So we have come to talk to the young people who are injured by the series of conflicts, to change their perspectives and become better people for ourselves, families, communities and the country in general,” she said.
The founder also appealed to young people not to be discouraged by the harsh economic realities in the country but to remain focused on achieving their life goals.
“We realise that in Nigeria, especially when you see that inflation has gone up and many people are not getting opportunities.
“Things are difficult and when you cannot meet up to the things that you want, you might begin to think of ways to let go, and suicide is one.
“Our aim is to reduce the rising incidences of depression and suicide among young people; we need them to keep their mental health intact for themselves and the country in general,” she
