Dr. Arit Esangbedo is a consultant psychiatrist and specialist at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba. A fellow of the West African College of Physicians (FWAC Psychiatry). She is also a trainer on child and adolescent and women intervention on substance abuse, an International certified Addiction Professional (ICAP11) and an International Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist. She is the Secretary of Medical and Dental Consultant Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) Yaba branch, Chairman of Substance and Abuse Committee, Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), National President of the Suicide Research and Prevention Initiative (SURPIN) and a member other local and international bodies. In this interview, she shares her passion for her profession and other salient issues.
Can you share a bit about your journey and how you got into the Psychiatry field?
When I was in the UK, I got a different perspective about Psychiatry. I particularly did not like psychiatry postings in medical school. I saw people with a diagnosed mental illness get well, I saw how the doctors communicated with these patients in an empathic way, despite all the odd behaviours and speech they presented with, it was very amazing to me that one could communicate with patients in such a manner, pick out the problems, make a diagnosis, treat and boom, the patient is well. I was really intrigued and wanted to do same. So, when I came back to Nigeria, my first job was in the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Calabar, I was really happy that psychiatry found me. I actually wanted to be a dermatologist because during my NYSC, where I worked, I was the supposed ‘skin doctor’ and was good at it. Anyway, marriage brought me back to Lagos and I still went back to psychiatry. I tried working in the general hospital doing general medicine and surgery, but I think the six months I spent there were not really happy ones for me, until I was accepted to start residency again in Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital Yaba and since then, the journey has been great.
What was the most interesting story that happened to you since you began your career?
I think the most interesting thing was that I finished my residency without any stress while enjoying my job at the same time and it gave me the greatest feeling of self-actualisation. I will tell you a story. I went to Balogun market one day and I heard someone call my name, it was a patient I had managed, she was selling provisions there in the market. She was so excited to see me, she called a few people in the market and kept introducing me to them as the person that made her understand that mental illness is not a life sentence. Apparently, it was these market women that contributed money for her to get help in our hospital and helped her get the shop she was currently occupying as she was orphaned and just used to walk around the market running errands for people in her ill state. They were so appreciative and each had a little gift for me just to say thank you. I was so overwhelmed that I cried in the market that day. I was happy she was doing well and had good support and at that point I felt so blessed that God kept me in psychiatry. It’s one of my memorable stories, though I have quite a few.
Are there gender gaps in the Psychiatry field especially as it concerns women and how can we ensure inclusion?
Yes, there are gaps in the field of psychiatry especially when it concerns women. Take for example, currently in Nigeria, there are ten Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospitals, but only two are being headed by females despite the large number of women in the specialty. As a matter of fact, in the history of psychiatric hospitals, I can only count about five female medical directors so far, two coming from Yaba. So, I think that more women should be included in leadership positions, now that we have encouraged more females to come into psychiatry.
You are the president of Suicide Research and Prevention Initiative (SURPIN), what inspired you to take up that role?
Becoming the president of SURPIN was simply by election and I emerged; it was not a difficult shoe to fit in as I have been a member of SURPIN right from the early period of its inception and moreover I have a great CEO (Dr Emeka Ogbolu) and a superb supportive team that makes running the NGO quite seamless.
Can you share some of the success stories you’ve recorded since you took up that leadership role?
My success story is the fact that we have become members of an International organisation that is also involved in suicide prevention and decriminalisation of suicide, we have a lot of other NGOs collaborating with us now, we have gotten grants to help us sustain and maintain our helpline so that citizens can call in at any time toll free, and we have developed a good brief intervention and referral system where brief counselling is given in mild situations by properly trained counsellors and referrals to appropriate healthcare centers in severe cases, which is helping our citizens in the whole thirty six states including the FCT. We are also part of the team in collaboration with the FMOH working to decriminalise suicide and by God’s grace this white paper on decriminalisation of suicide will soon be passed by the federal government. We carry out prevention campaigns in schools, constantly train and retrain the media professionals on safe reporting, the clergies, teachers on recognition of symptoms and signs of some mental health problems and need to refer severe cases. We particularly make sure those with lived experiences are part of our peer support groups, and we continuously carry out our annual SURPIN conference every 10th September (World Suicide Prevention Day).
What is your vision for SURPIN under your leadership?
My vision is to sustain what we are doing so far and build upon it, so that all the citizens will have access to care no matter where they are in the country and continue to create awareness that suicide isn’t a crime but a mental health problem.
What barriers do women face when addressing issues such as major depressive disorder and postpartum depression?
One of the biggest barriers is stigma, which often makes women feel ashamed or afraid to ask for help. Many also dismiss their symptoms as just stress, motherhood, or hormonal changes, delaying treatment. Limited access to mental health services, financial challenges, and lack of awareness also play a role. Some women worry about being judged as “bad mothers” or weak if they admit they are struggling.
How can spouses, partners or other family members support women who are experiencing a mental health condition?
From my perspective, creating safe, non-judgmental spaces and improving education about mental health are essential to helping women seek care earlier. The most important thing is to listen without judgment and take their concerns seriously. Family members should encourage professional help while offering practical support with daily responsibilities when needed. Patience is important because recovery is often gradual rather than immediate. Learning about the condition can also help loved ones understand what the person is experiencing. Small acts of empathy, reassurance, and consistent emotional support can make a significant difference in recovery.
What do you see as critical skills for future leaders in psychiatry?
Future leaders in psychiatry will need strong assessment and clinical knowledge/skills alongside excellent communication and emotional intelligence. They should also be adaptable, open to innovation, and willing to embrace advances in digital health and research. Advocacy skills are also important to improve mental health policies and reduce stigma. Collaboration with professionals across different disciplines will become increasingly valuable. Above all, effective leaders should remain compassionate and committed to patient-centered care while mentoring the next generation.
How do you balance personal life and work without one affecting the other?
I believe balance comes from setting clear boundaries and being intentional with my time. When I am at work, I focus fully on my patients and responsibilities, and when I am with family or friends, I try to be fully present with them. I also make time for rest, hobbies, spiritual activities and other activities that help me recharge. I accept that perfect balance isn’t always possible, especially during demanding periods, but consistency matters more than perfection. Taking care of my own well-being ultimately helps me provide better care for others.
What advice would you give girls and women who are interested in careers in psychiatry?
If you’re passionate about understanding people and making a meaningful difference in their lives, psychiatry is a deeply rewarding career. Stay curious, keep learning, and don’t be discouraged by misconceptions about the specialty. Oh!, believe me, people have a whole lot of that. Seek mentors who can guide and inspire you throughout your journey. Build strong communication, empathy, and critical thinking skills, as they are just as important as medical knowledge. Believe in your abilities, stay resilient, and remember that your work has the power to transform lives and communities.
