According to a Clinical Psychologist at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba (FNPHY), Dr. Akin Gabriel, there has been a noticeable rise in the number of young individuals, particularly around the age of 16, seeking help for mental health issues at the hospital.
Dr. Gabriel, a Director at the institution, highlighted this trend in Lagos on Wednesday, emphasizing that there has been a growing awareness among people about their mental health. Consequently, individuals are increasingly inclined to seek assistance when they recognize the need for it.
“More young people are presenting at the hospital. We’re having more of that.
“Young people within 16 are coming to the hospital with complaints that could be eventually diagnosed as depression or anxiety disorders.
“The generation now is quite informed; they have a lot of information on their hands.
“They are looking for that extra that will help them manage the information they have to help them out of their situation,” he said.
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Gabriel cautioned against judgmental statements or behaviours toward individuals perceived to act out of normal.
The psychologist further cautioned against the use of alcohol and other substances in coping with feelings such as low mood, which could be linked to depression.
He emphasised that resorting to alcohol and substance use to feel better or elevate one’s mood was only temporal and could complicate the issue.
“It is just for a short while; after the substance has cleared from the system, they require another one.
“That is where the cycle of addiction starts,” he said.
Gabriel urged individuals who experienced signs and symptoms associated with mental ailments to seek medical help.
NAN
