“It is well” is not a strategy: What Nigeria is refusing to confront about mental health, By Hauwa Ojeifo

Nigeria's widespread use of the phrase "It is well" as a response to personal and societal challenges has drawn attention to the nation's reluctance to address mental health issues head-on. According to reports from local media and advocacy groups, the phrase, often used as a form of reassurance or denial, has evolved into a cultural crutch, masking deeper psychological struggles faced by millions of Nigerians. The issue comes to light through the experiences of individuals like Kalu, a man grappling with the emotional and financial toll of caring for his family after losing his father to cancer. Kalu's story reflects the broader narrative of psychological distress in Nigeria, where economic instability, caregiving duties, and social pressures contribute significantly to mental health crises. After his father's death, Kalu found himself shouldering the responsibility of providing for his family, including his mother's medical expenses and his siblings' education. Despite earning a monthly salary of ₦200,000, nearly 80% of it was consumed by transportation costs and family obligations, leaving little room for personal respite. When confronted with these realities, Kalu heard the familiar refrain from his aunt: "It is well." This phrase, intended to offer comfort, instead served as a barrier to acknowledging his true emotional state. The phrase "It is well" has become deeply ingrained in Nigerian society, often invoked during times of hardship such as job loss, illness, or violence. While it may stem from religious or spiritual beliefs, its frequent usage can prevent individuals from seeking professional help or engaging in open conversations about mental health. This cultural tendency to suppress emotional pain has led to a lack of awareness and understanding around mental health conditions, making it difficult for many to recognize symptoms or seek treatment. She Writes Woman, a non-profit organization based in Nigeria, has been documenting the mental health landscape through its 24-hour free helpline. Over the past decade, the organization has received more than 25,000 calls from individuals experiencing psychological distress. Of these, over 80% were from people aged 18 to 30, highlighting the growing mental health concerns among the younger generation. Many callers described feelings of exhaustion, isolation, and overwhelm rather than specific diagnoses like depression or anxiety. Their primary request was not for a clinical assessment but for someone to listen and provide support. A recent report titled "Decade of Impact," compiled by She Writes Woman, reveals alarming statistics regarding mental health in Nigeria. Nearly 55% of the callers expressed suicidal thoughts, while one in four crisis calls were linked to depression. These figures underscore the severity of the situation, yet they remain largely unacknowledged in public discourse. Mental health is often viewed as a private matter rather than a public health concern, leading to stigma and underreporting. The intersection of mental health with socioeconomic factors is evident in the narratives shared by callers. Economic uncertainty, caregiving responsibilities, and the constant threat of insecurity contribute to heightened stress levels. For instance, many individuals face the dual challenge of maintaining employment while managing familial obligations. In such contexts, mental health becomes a silent struggle, overshadowed by immediate survival needs. As the conversation around mental health gains traction, advocates emphasize the importance of shifting perceptions and fostering a culture that encourages open dialogue. They argue that recognizing mental health as a critical component of overall well-being is essential for developing effective interventions. Initiatives aimed at increasing access to mental health services, reducing stigma, and promoting community support systems are gaining momentum, although progress remains slow.