Mental health advocates, development practitioners, and youth leaders gathered in Abuja for the Mental Health Seminar 2.0, themed “Seen, Heard and Held,” to raise awareness of mental health challenges and promote a bculture of empathy, support, and inclusion for individuals experiencing emotional and psychological distress.
Speaking at the event, the Convener and Mental Health Champion 2.0, Ambassador Gloria Mwuese, underscored the importance of creating safe spaces where individuals can openly discuss their struggles without fear of stigma or discrimination.
She noted that many people continue to face mental health challenges in silence due to societal misconceptions and inadequate support systems. According to her, the seminar’s theme reflects the need for individuals to feel seen, heard, and supported throughout their mental health journeys.
Ambassador Mwuese called on government institutions, civil society organizations, schools, workplaces, and families to prioritize mental health and ensure access to quality mental health services and psychosocial support.
Also speaking at the seminar, Ambassador Lucy Aricha Ojite, Miss Face of Humanity Nigeria and Founder of the Pearl Impact Initiative, emphasized the need for greater awareness and community engagement in addressing mental health issues, particularly among young people.
She also highlighted the importance of setting healthy boundaries and reminded participants that men also cry. She encouraged attendees to become advocates for mental wellness by demonstrating compassion, listening to those in distress, and helping to break the stigma often associated with mental health conditions.
The event featured interactive discussions, personal testimonies, and expert insights aimed at equipping participants with practical tools for maintaining mental well-being and supporting others.
Participants commended the organizers for providing a platform that fosters meaningful conversations around mental health and promotes collective responsibility in building healthier and more supportive communities.
The seminar concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders to continue championing mental health awareness and ensuring that no one facing mental health challenges is left unseen, unheard, or unsupported.
