Mental health professionals have called for greater awareness, compassionate support and early intervention for people experiencing emotional distress.

They made the call at the second edition of My Mind Matters, organised by Kemi Owadara Productions in Ibadan, Oyo State, as part of activities marking Mental Health Month.

Owadara, the Convener of My Mind Matters, emphasised the need to create safe spaces for people to discuss emotional challenges without fear of stigma or discrimination.

A certified health and life coach, Mr. Philip Kuhns, highlighted the links between physical and mental well-being, identifying poor nutrition, inadequate sleep, illness and traumatic experiences as factors that could affect emotional health.

He urged people experiencing grief to allow themselves time to heal, while warning against harmful coping mechanisms such as substance misuse, gambling and destructive relationships.

“Each of us needs space to grieve, without pressure to feel better quickly,” he said.

A counselling psychologist, Dr Atinuke Seun-Ige, urged Nigerians to recognise signs of emotional distress and seek help before their difficulties become overwhelming.

She explained that resilience involved adapting to adversity and seeking support when necessary, rather than suppressing emotions or attempting to manage every challenge alone.

“Resilience doesn’t mean one shouldn’t cry when things happen or handle it all alone,” she said.

Seun-Ige also introduced the RESET technique, which encourages people to recognise their emotions, calm themselves, identify what they can control, take practical steps and reach out to trusted people for support.

Associate Mental Health Counsellor, Mrs Ifeoluwa Bamidele, stressed the importance of emotional awareness, urging people to understand their feelings and how these influence their thoughts and behaviour.

Representing the Governor of Rotary International District 9126, Rotarian (Dr) Olaniyi Amoo Okin, Rotarian Olatunji Afolayan commended the organisers for sustaining the initiative following its inaugural edition in Lagos.

He urged Nigerians to challenge mental health stigma, noting that people could be struggling despite appearing cheerful.

“Mental health challenge is not a weakness, and seeking help is not a shame,” he said as the event also featured the launch of Owadara’s first book, Before She Learned to Breathe, with guests making donations in support of the launch.