A concerned group in Akwa Ibom state, the Ononokpono Olu Family, on Monday, called on governments at all levels to address the rising cases of mental health disorder in the state.
In a communiqué issued after their biennial homecoming and family reunion held at Nung- Odobo, Okobo local government area of the state, the group expressed concern over the alarming increase in depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
The communiqué was jointly signed by Comrade Victor Ononokpono, chairman communiqué committee, Offiong Deborah Ononokpono, secretary communiqué committee with Rev. Eskor Ononokpono, Mr. Iniobong Ononokpono, Nkere Joe Ononokpono, Rev. Emmanuel Joe Ononokpono as members.
The communiqué said the current national budget allocation of less than 2% for mental health treatment and prevention, is “grossly inadequate.”
The communiqué also noted that increasing stress levels, economic hardship, and social pressures are contributing to the surge in mental health disorders.
The communiqué stated the need for increased investment in prevention and treatment, as well as cost-effective interventions.
The communiqué reads in part: “That mental disorder and other non communicable diseases- mainly cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and chronic respiratory illness- claim many lives prematurely, cause massive ill health and compromise human and economic development.
“That there is an urgent need for increased investments by governments at all levels for the prevention and treatment of mental disorders, including those emanating from drug and alcohol abuse.
“That the current national budget of less than 2 percent of the health budget to the treatment and prevention of mental disorders is grossly inadequate.
“That there is a need for government at all levels to provide cost-effective, affordable and feasible interventions including development of strategies to reduce cardiovascular disease risk factors within the society.”
The communiqué also highlighted the importance of addressing environmental health outcomes, such as air pollution, and called for collaboration between government, foundations, and NGOs to eradicate poverty and illiteracy.
