Omiete Blessing
In commemoration of the 2024 World Mental Health Day, members of the Olympus Marino Deck of the National Association Seadogs (NAS), Pyrates Confraternity, has donated drugs to Rumuokwuta Health Center in Rivers State, and distributed Insecticide Treated Mosquito Net to traders and residents of the area.
The group also sensitised Rivers people on the need to care for their mental health, held at markets places, motor parks and streets of Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor areas of Rivers State, at the weekend.
Sensitising the traders, Dr Isoboye Jack, a Psychiatrist with the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), described mental health as emotional, social and psychological wellbeing of the individual, stressing the need for people to understand that the mind is a very important organ despite the fact that people do not see it.
He said “Mental Health is the emotional, social and the psychological wellbeing of individuals. The reason why alot of people don’t give thoughts to mental health is they don’t see the mind. If somebody has dislocation of the hand or injury in parts of the body is visible and they will take drug, but the mind is the most important organ in the human body”.
Speaking with The Nigerian Xpress, during the awareness campaign at the Rumuokwuta market, Capoon, NAS, Olympus Marino Deck, Nnamdi Ilochi explained that mental health is a fundamental aspect of overall health and well-being, stressing that “it affects how we think, feel, and act, and plays a crucial role in our ability to handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions”.
Ilochi regretted that mental health issues has remained stigmatised, underfunded, and overlooked in many parts of the world, preventing countless individuals from accessing the care and support they need.
According to him, “Olympus Marino Deck, we believe that mental health is not just an individual concern but a societal obligation. Our commitment to raising awareness about mental health and advocating for mental health rights is unwavering”.
He said in this celebration of mental health day, the association engaged in various activities, including sensitisation walks, public lectures, and community outreach programs, aimed at educating the community about the importance of mental health care and the necessity of removing barriers to access.
He however urged everyone, including “governments, organisations, and individuals to recognise mental health as a human right and to take action to support those affected by mental health challenges”, expressing the need for collective efforts to create a society where everyone has access to mental health resources, free from stigma and discrimination.
Ilochi added “As we commemorate this important day, let us reaffirm our commitment to fostering mental health awareness, supporting those in need, and advocating for policies that promote mental well-being. Together, we can build a future where mental health is prioritised, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive”.
Members of NAS, Olympus Marino Deck, presenting drugs to the Rumuokwuta Health Center in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, in commemoration of World Mental Health Day.