Some psychologists in higher institutions have advised students to embrace self-care, prioritize rest, build healthy social ties, and seek professional help to tackle rising mental health challenges.
They gave the advice on Tuesday during a Campus Mental Health Awareness Seminar held at the Caleb University Counselling and Development Clinic, in collaboration with the Department of Psychology, Lagos State.
The seminar, themed “Demystifying Mental Health Issues Among University Students,” was organized in line with the 2025 World Mental Health Day observance.
The event aimed to educate young people on recognizing, addressing, and managing mental health challenges common in stressful academic environments across Nigerian universities and colleges.
Delivering the keynote address titled “The Most Common Mental Health Issues Among 21st Century Youths,” Dr. Ayodeji Ajayi, a clinical psychologist from the Yaba Neuropsychiatric Hospital, identified lifestyle stress, academic pressure, and social media influence as key causes of poor mental health among students.
He explained various conditions including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, ADHD, and insomnia, outlining their causes and symptoms. Ajayi stressed the importance of early intervention, therapy, and strong social support systems, urging students to adopt self-awareness and regular self-care practices to maintain emotional balance.
Another speaker, Dr. Gbenusola Akinwale from the University of Lagos, spoke on “Demystifying Youth Mental Health: The Pros and Cons.”
Using relatable language and examples, Akinwale encouraged openness in discussing mental health but cautioned against self-diagnosis and the casual misuse of psychological terms on social media.
A panel session featuring Dr. Sanmi Ibidapo, Priscilla Benjamin-Olaoye (a U.S.-based expert), and Henry Levano (a New York-based advocate) focused on improving access to mental health services during emergencies.
The panelists also examined the 2025 World Mental Health Day theme and discussed barriers students face in accessing professional help, especially during personal or community-wide crises.
Participants described the seminar as impactful, particularly the use of a “Mood Meter” launched by organizers to measure students’ emotional responses throughout the sessions.
Dr. Johnson Ibidapo, Clinic Coordinator, thanked the university leadership for their support, noting that while significant progress was made, continued efforts were needed to promote mental wellness on campuses.
Declaring the event open, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Olalekan Asikhia, represented by Prof. Adesola Ajayi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation, Strategy and Administration), said the seminar was timely given the rising cases of mental health challenges among Nigerian youth amid growing academic and economic pressures.
The programme featured expert talks, medical checks, games, and counseling sessions, with both keynote speakers and panelists sharing insights and practical strategies for better mental health management.
The Campus Mental Health Awareness Seminar successfully promoted mental wellness and encouraged students to adopt a proactive approach to their emotional and psychological wellbeing.
