Understanding Depression in Nigeria: Real Case Studies

Depression and mental illness are serious issues that affect millions of people around the world, and Nigeria is no exception. Despite being a country with a rich cultural heritage and vibrant community, mental health remains a largely misunderstood and stigmatized issue in Nigeria. According to the World Health Organization, one in four Nigerians will experience a mental health condition at some point in their lives, yet only a small fraction of them receive the necessary treatment.

One of the main reasons for the lack of proper treatment for mental illness in Nigeria is the cultural and societal stigma surrounding it. Many Nigerians believe that mental illness is a result of personal weakness or a spiritual problem, and as a result, those who suffer from it are often shunned and ostracized by their families and communities. This stigma can have devastating effects on individuals, leading them to suffer in silence and not seek help.

One such case is that of 23-year-old Aisha, who was diagnosed with clinical depression at the age of 19. Aisha's symptoms started during her final year of university when she struggled to keep up with her studies and maintain relationships. She would often feel sad, and hopeless, and experience intense feelings of guilt for no apparent reason. Her family and friends dismissed her struggles as a mere phase, and she was told to pray and have faith in God to make her better. However, Aisha's condition only worsened, and she eventually had to drop out of university.

After months of struggling alone, Aisha finally sought help and was diagnosed with clinical depression. She was prescribed medication and therapy, but she faced backlash from her family and community for seeking treatment for a 'spiritual problem.' Aisha's story is not unique in Nigeria, as many people with mental illness face similar challenges in seeking treatment due to the cultural stigma attached to it.

Another case study is that of 42-year-old Ibrahim, who has been living with schizophrenia for over 20 years. Ibrahim's symptoms began in his early twenties, and he was labeled as 'possessed' by his community. He was chained and abused by his family, who believed that he was a danger to himself and others. It was not until a local NGO intervened and provided him with proper treatment that Ibrahim's condition improved. However, he still faces discrimination and struggles to find employment due to his mental illness.

The stories of Aisha and Ibrahim are just two examples of the challenges faced by individuals with mental 0illness in Nigeria. Despite the passing of the Mental Health Act in 2013, which aims to promote and protect the rights of people with mental illness, there is still a lack of proper infrastructure and resources to support those in need.

However, there is hope for change. Organizations such as Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (MANI) and She Writes Woman are working towards breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness in Nigeria. They provide support, education, and advocacy for individuals with mental health conditions, and have been instrumental in changing the narrative around mental health in the country.

Depression and mental illness are prevalent in Nigeria, and the stigma attached to it only makes it harder for those who suffer to seek the help they need. Nigerian society must educate themselves and break the stigma surrounding mental health. With health proper support and resources, individuals like Aisha and Ibrahim can live fulfilling lives and contribute positively to their communities.

Credit: World Health Organization (2006)

Depression and mental health

What does academic research entail?

Academic research is a fundamental aspect of higher education (universities and colleges) that involves the systematic investigation of a particular subject or topic. It is a rigorous process that requires critical thinking, analysis, and the application of various research methodologies. Academic research plays a crucial role in advancing knowledge, contributing to the development of new theories, and providing evidence-based solutions to real-world problems.

One of the key elements of academic research is the formulation of a research question or hypothesis. This question serves as the guiding principle for the entire research process and helps to focus the investigation. The research question should be specific, measurable, and relevant to the field of study. It should also be feasible within the constraints of time, resources, and ethical considerations. You can find this in the thesis and dissertation of students enrolled in higher education. 

Here is an example of a research hypothesis and question.

Once the research question is established, the next step is to conduct a comprehensive literature review. This involves reviewing existing scholarly works, such as books, journal articles, and conference papers, to gain a thorough understanding of the current state of knowledge on the topic. The literature review helps to identify gaps in the existing research and provides a foundation for the research design.

After the literature review, the researcher must design a research methodology that is appropriate for the research question. This may involve selecting a quantitative or qualitative approach, determining the sample size and sampling technique, and choosing the data collection methods. The research methodology should be valid, reliable, and ethical, ensuring that the data collected is accurate and unbiased.

Once the research methodology is established, data collection can begin. This may involve conducting surveys, interviews, experiments, or observations, depending on the nature of the research question. The data collected must be analysed using appropriate statistical or qualitative analysis techniques to draw meaningful conclusions.

Finally, the results of the research should be communicated through academic writing. This typically takes the form of a research paper, thesis, or dissertation. The writing should be clear, concise, and well-structured, following the conventions of academic writing. It should also include a discussion of the implications of the research findings and suggestions for future research.

Academic research is a rigorous and systematic process that involves formulating a research question, conducting a literature review, designing a research methodology, collecting and analysing data, and communicating the results. It is a vital component of higher education that contributes to the advancement of knowledge and the development of new theories. By engaging in academic research, students and scholars can make meaningful contributions to their respective fields of study.