Emergency Response Africa has partnered with Blueroomcare to launch Nigeria’s first-of-its-kind Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training program. This program aims to tackle the increasing prevalence of mental health challenges in the country, exacerbated by widespread stigma and limited access to professional care.
According to the President of the Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria (APN), over 60 million Nigerians are living with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Alarmingly, more than 90% of these individuals lack access to adequate care. This gap in mental health support is attributed to limited public awareness and a severe shortage of mental health professionals in the country.
To bridge this gap, Emergency Response Africa and Blueroom Care have developed a Mental Health First Aid training program designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to recognize and respond to mental health challenges effectively. The program is targeted at corporate organizations, particularly in major cities like Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Abuja, where the rate of workplace-related mental health issues has seen a significant rise.
The launch event brought together a diverse audience, including HR professionals, corporate leaders, and mental health advocates, all united by a shared commitment to addressing Nigeria’s mental health challenges. Kehinde Aworo, Head of People & Culture at Purelife Pharmacy, described the training as “interesting and insightful,” highlighting how it provided practical knowledge on recognizing the signs and symptoms of mental illness and offering support before medical help is sought. Similarly, Joy Mildred Mboya, Group HR at the International Finance Corporation, praised the training as “relevant and interactive,” emphasizing its applicability across various sectors and recommending it to management teams, peers, and even community settings like churches and marketplaces.
What is Mental Health First Aid Training?
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training is a globally recognized course that equips participants with the skills and knowledge needed to assist someone experiencing a mental health crisis or showing early signs of a mental health problem. The course focuses on identifying symptoms, offering initial support, and guiding the individual toward professional help.
In Nigeria, myths and misconceptions often surround mental health, creating barriers to proper care and understanding. Common myths include beliefs that mental health issues only affect “weak” individuals or that conditions like depression and anxiety are simply signs of laziness or lack of faith. These misconceptions perpetuate stigma and prevent many from seeking help.
MHFA training dispels these myths by providing evidence-based knowledge and practical skills. Participants learn to understand mental health conditions, recognize when someone may need support, and respond with empathy and confidence. By addressing these misconceptions, MHFA training contributes to a more informed and supportive society, helping to normalize conversations around mental health.
Benefits of Mental Health First Aid Training for Organizations in Nigeria
Implementing Mental Health First Aid training in organizations comes with numerous benefits that go beyond individual well-being. Here are some key advantages:
- Improved Employee Performance
Employees who feel supported in their mental health are more likely to perform at their best. MHFA training helps organizations create a supportive environment where employees can thrive. - Enhanced Retention and Lower Attrition Rates
Mental health challenges often lead to burnout and high turnover rates. By equipping managers and HR teams with the tools to identify and address these issues early, organizations can retain top talent and reduce attrition. - Boosted Morale and Workplace Productivity
A mentally healthy workplace fosters positive relationships, open communication, and increased job satisfaction. Employees who feel understood and supported are more engaged and productive. - Proactive Crisis Management
MHFA training prepares staff to respond effectively to mental health crises, reducing the risk of workplace disruptions and ensuring a safer, healthier environment for all.
For organizations in Nigeria, where workplace-related mental health issues are rising, these benefits are critical to building resilient, high-performing teams.
Conclusion
The Mental Health First Aid training program offered by Emergency Response Africa and Blueroom Care is a transformative initiative designed to bridge the mental health care gap in Nigeria. By empowering individuals and organizations with the tools to recognize and address mental health challenges, this program contributes to a healthier, more supportive society.
If you are interested in learning more about our Mental Health First Aid course or want to sign up, please contact us via phone at 08085309007 or email at contact@emergencyresponseafrica.com. Together, we can create a mentally healthier Nigeria.
