At a symposium in Lagos to mark International White Cane and Safety Day, experts from the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital Yaba and First Aid Services Nigeria urged visually impaired persons to prioritise mental health care, learn first aid skills, and seek early support to prevent depression and anxiety.
By Bilkis Abdulraheem Lawal
Persons living with disabilities, particularly the visually impaired, have been urged to guard against mental stress, anxiety, and other factors that could lead to depression and related mental health challenges.
This call was made by Dr Obafemi Alalade, a medical expert from the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba, during a lecture titled “Mental Health and Disability” at a one-day symposium organised by the Nigerian Association of the Blind (NAB) in Jibowu, Lagos. The event formed part of activities marking this year’s International White Cane and Safety Day.
Dr Alalade discussed the various forms and impacts of mental health conditions, including depression, stress, psychological imbalance, memory loss, and the inability to coordinate personal goals.
He noted that mental health challenges affect both able-bodied and disabled individuals, stressing that “the wards of the Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Yaba are filled with people battling different levels of mental health disorders.”
While he affirmed that mental illnesses are treatable and manageable, Dr Alalade emphasised the importance of prevention through early awareness and self-care.
He advised persons with disabilities to seek help promptly when experiencing emotional or psychological distress.
Also speaking, Dr Akhere Mariam, a disability and inclusion lead for First Aid Services Nigeria, highlighted the need for persons living with disabilities to acquire basic first aid skills. According to her, emergencies do not discriminate between people with or without disabilities, and everyone should be equipped to respond effectively in crisis situations.
“First aid is for everyone. Persons with disabilities live in the same communities as others, and equipping them with life-saving knowledge can help them assist their families, neighbours, and colleagues,” she said.
Dr Akhere also conducted a practical demonstration during the session, showing how individuals with visual impairment can provide first aid in emergency scenarios.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the organising committee, Mr Adeola Aina, described the symposium as an innovative platform that empowers visually impaired persons to handle health-related challenges and emergencies. He added that the awareness created during the event would be extended to others who could not attend.
“This year’s White Cane and Safety Day aims to promote independence, safety, and future career fulfilment for persons living with disabilities, especially those who are still being kept indoors by parents or guardians,” Mr Aina said.
The symposium concluded with participants pledging to become advocates for mental health awareness and disability inclusion within their communities.
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