In a bustling city of Kaduna, a powerful initiative took place to shed light on an often overlooked aspect of well-being. The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Kaduna, Mental Space Foundation Africa (MSFA), and Global Insight collaborated to organize a thought-provoking one-day workshop aimed at raising mental health awareness among students.
The event unfolded at the prestigious Jam’iyyar Matan Arewa Hall, drawing in bright minds from primary, secondary, and tertiary educational institutions across the state. At the heart of this gathering was Barrister Olufunke Abosede, the esteemed Chairperson of FIDA Kaduna. In her opening address, she underlined the critical significance of mental health education by stating,
“We are here to educate students about mental health because it impacts everyone.”
With a theme resonating as
“Healthy Mind, Brighter Future,”
the workshop delved into the pressing mental health challenges faced by young individuals today. From anxiety to depression and trauma, these issues are often exacerbated by academic stressors, societal expectations, and financial difficulties.
Experts emphasized that early exposure to mental health education equips students with the tools to identify warning signs proactively and seek assistance without stigma.
Barrister Abosede further articulated this point by asserting that
“Mental health education can reduce stigma and empower students to take care of their emotional well-being.”
The event also featured Dania Sharon from Mental Space Foundation Africa who shared insights into their impactful initiatives aimed at promoting mental wellness in educational institutions and communities across Africa. Sharon highlighted the organization’s commitment to normalizing help-seeking behavior and aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals on good health and well-being.
A crucial voice added to this narrative was that of a seasoned clinical psychologist who illuminated the intrinsic connection between mental health and overall wellness. He advocated for schools to establish channels for professional support even within resource-constrained environments through collaborations with mental health entities.
The culmination of this enlightening workshop was marked by an engaging interactive session where students candidly exchanged personal experiences while imbibing practical strategies for nurturing their mental well-being.
Through collaborative efforts like these workshops spearheaded by FIDA Kaduna alongside dedicated partners in mental health advocacy, strides are being made towards fostering a generation equipped with not only academic prowess but also resilient emotional fortitude—a generation poised for brighter tomorrows through healthier minds.
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