This October, YES and IRIS alumni, Dr. Faith Kumbak (YES ‘06) and Dr. Parkwat (YES ‘12) organized a transformative event in their local community of Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. This event was in celebration of The Global World Mental Health Day 2024. Mental health is an increasingly urgent issue in Nigeria. This event aimed to combat the mental health issues within the local community through raising awareness, reducing stigma and importantly, fostering an open environment for open conversations regarding mental health.

This initiative addressed the increase in cases of mental health disorders in Plateau State. The increase in cases has been worsened by economic hardships and social pressures. The vast amount of the diagnosis has been depression and substance abuse. This event singled in on the key factor that this is not a struggle one person should face alone and is an even bigger reason the community should rally together to fight the stigma and provide support for one another.

The event in Jos included a public walk in aspect which united YES alumni, local health officials and community members. This resulted in an even larger spread of information, due to the local media presence. The local PRTV radio station and NTA used this opportunity to further discuss with the public and educate them on the severity of mental health struggles. The PRTV radio station brought in experts to share information and even provided resources.

In addition, a conference at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) brought together key stakeholders. Notable attendance from Dr. Shurkuk Cletus Bako the Plateau State Commissioner of Health and Dr. Pokop Bapwatda, the Chief Medical Director of JUTH. Their attendance shed light on the importance of taking collective action in addressing the mental health struggles.

Through the support of the community engaging with the conversations, experts and resources provided this further helped reinforce that mental health is a shared responsibility and not a personal struggle. This initiative laid the foundation for mental health efforts and showed the prioritization which is present within the community. Through the collaborative efforts from the Plateau State Ministry of Health, the Jos University Teaching Hospital, local media outlets as well as community members emphasize the supportive environment present and encourage individuals to seek help without fear.

The Global World Mental Health Day efforts in Plateau State this year, was much more than just an event. It was a transitional beginning of a movement. This was possible through the extraordinary leadership of Dr. Kumbak and Dr. Joshua. This initiative more than demonstrated the impact that united communities have and the lasting change that they are making. The Jos community has fostered a society where mental health is openly addressed and fully supported shown through this effort.