Abuja: A non-governmental organisation, Secure the Future International Initiative (SDF-I), has called for increased investment and multi-sector collaboration to address the severe and persistent underfunding of mental health issues globally. SDF-I Founder, Dr. Saadatu Adamu, made the call at the seventh Annual Mental Health International Conference titled: 'Regaining Youth Mental Health in Digital World: Identity, Overload and Connection' in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Adamu emphasized the importance of recognizing mental health as a fundamental human right, rather than a privilege. She highlighted Africa's unique position to lead in developing innovative, inclusive, and culturally grounded approaches to mental health care. Dr. Adamu urged governments, institutions, organizations, and individuals to collaborate in investing in mental health research, policy, education, and community-based solutions to shape the next generation. She described SDF-I as a movement that is transforming lives, shaping conversations, and changing narratives, particularly by breaking the silence and stigma surrounding mental health.
The Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, underscored the need for governments and relevant institutions to promote the wellbeing of young people to achieve set goals. Represented by Mr. Emmanuel Essien, Head of Department, Youth Health Mental and Psychosocial Affairs, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Olawande noted that the mental health of young people is crucial for their bright future. He pointed out that while the digital space offers identity, creativity, and learning opportunities, it can also lead to emotional overload.
In addressing these challenges, the conference theme called for understanding and envisioning new paths that embrace innovation, empathy, and readiness. Olawande stressed the importance of listening deeply and acting boldly to reimagine youth mental health in a world where identity is curated, overload is constant, and connection is increasingly digital.
Amarachukwu Orakwe, Vice-President of the African Union Youth Club (AUYC), Nigeria, emphasized that leadership should be seen as an influence on people rather than a confined seat in government. She highlighted the generational distress faced by youth and the need to lead carefully in a world demanding constant performance. Orakwe advised individuals to prioritize their mental health, likening its importance to the necessity of a head for human existence.
The event included goodwill messages, the unveiling of the MinDr.App, paper presentations, and breakout sessions on topics such as 'Building Mental Resilience in a Digital World' and strategies for digital wellbeing and self-regulation.