Sit-tight rulers suffering from mental health issues – Buratai

Sit-tight rulers suffering from mental health issues – Buratai

By Lawrence Audu

The solution to addressing mental health challenges in society has been described as raising awareness through active participation in conversations, educational programmes, and community assistance.

Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, a former chief of the army staff and Nigeria’s ambassador to the Republic of Benin, made this statement during his keynote speech at a conference in Abuja to commemorate World Mental Health Day in 2023.

He emphasised the need for everyone to work together to promote empathy, understanding, and support for people who are dealing with mental health issues in order to have a significant influence and open the door to a more compassionate society.

General Buratai hinted that people in positions of power are not the only ones who experience mental health issues, adding that sit-tight rulers and dictators also experience these problems because there have been instances in which these leaders’ mental health has negatively impacted their decision-making, judgement, emotional stability, and capacity for empathy, potentially having an adverse effect on their governance.

The former military officer who is now a diplomat added that mental health is unquestionably a fundamental human right and merits the utmost consideration and assistance.

“It is a fundamental aspect of human wellbeing that affects every individual, regardless of age, gender, socio economic status, just as physical health is considered a basic right.

“Addressing mental health issues, is not only the moral imperative, but also crucial for fostering thriving society, by ensuring equitable access to mental health services, promoting mental health literacy and reducing stigma, we can create a wall where every individual has the opportunity to enjoy optimal mental well being. Let us embrace mental health as a universal right and work together towards a more compassionate and inclusive society.”

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General Buratai noted that despite being the most populous country in Africa and having a high prevalence of mental health disorders, Nigeria has lagged behind in providing adequate support or resources for its citizens in recent years, which has led to concern about the country’s recent global ranking in the mental health index.

“The World Health Organization’s mental health Atlas indicates that Nigeria has a low number of mental health professionals per Capita and limited access to quality mental health services.

“This has resulted in a significant treatment gap, with many Nigerians are suffering from mental health issues without receiving necessary care. As a result, Nigeria’s global ranking in the mental health index remains lower than desirable highlighting the budget in investment and attention to mental health in our country”

Ambassador Buratai further suggested that seeking professional help is paramount and consulting with a mental health professional, such as a therapist, or psychiatrist can provide valuable insights, diagnoses and personalized treatment plans.

“Additionally, developing a support system is crucial. This entails fostering healthy relationships with loved ones, friends and support groups who can offer understanding empathy and encouragement through the journey.

“Activities such as exercise, meditation, and hobbies is equally important, as it promotes relaxation stress reduction, and overall well-being. Stay informed about mental health through reputable sources, attend educational workshops and utilize community resources, and enhance was understanding to advocate for themselves.”

Individuals can effectively advocate for and overcome mental health issues by using these techniques, he claimed.

The NOPDER foundation organized the conference with the theme: “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right: Powering the Future of Mental Health Care.”

Every year on October 10th, World Mental Health Day is commemorated to promote awareness of mental health concerns and call for help and treatment for those who need it. The purpose of the day is to encourage open dialogue about mental health, lessen stigma, and motivate people to get treatment when they need it.