The Student’s Union Government SUG, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra state, has organised a one-day mental health awareness seminar for students on the campus.
The event is geared towards reaching out to the students to raise awareness about mental health and educating them on the causes, symptoms, and treatment available for mental health illness to help reduce the rate of suicide attempts amongst them and help manage stress alongside academics.
The Convener and SUG treasurer of the School, Comrade Judith Atsedosan, recalled how the eight monthly strikes of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, took a huge toll on the mental health of students, disclosing that nearly half of the institution surveyed by World Health Organization in Awka reported disruptions to mental, neurological and substance used services.
She added that to deepen the value and commitment to mental health, there is a need to reshape the environment that influences mental health.
The Dean, of Student Affairs of the institution, Professor Chinonso Achebe, spoke on ‘the importance of academics as it helps improve mental health. He reminded the students of their purpose of being in the university and asked the students not to be carried away by campus life, but to improve their studies.
The event which featured free medicare attracted various speakers who spoke on suicide and mental health.
Dominica Nwabufo
