Concerned about the growing mental health challenges of young Nigerians, experts say mounting social, academic, and economic pressures continue to fuel rising burnout among them.

The warning was raised during an online discussion organised by Difficult Conversations Africa (DCA), where mental health specialist, Ms. Oluwakemi Oyewole, cautioned that the relentless pursuit of success,often measured by grades, income, and social status, is pushing many young people toward emotional and psychological exhaustion.

According to Oyewole, ambition itself is not harmful, but problems arise when external expectations begin to override personal purpose and well-being.

“Healthy ambition is internally driven and rooted in meaning and fulfilment,” she said. “Unhealthy pressure, shaped by family expectations, social comparison, and fear of failure, can result in chronic stress, anxiety, and depression.”

She cited instances of young people being pushed into career paths that do not align with their interests or abilities, warning that such pressure can damage self-worth and emotional stability.

Podcast host Mr. Yinka Olaito observed that many young professionals now sacrifice rest and emotional well-being in the race for financial security and career advancement.

“We celebrate productivity but rarely talk about recovery,” Mr. Olaito said. “Success is often measured by income and achievement, while mental well-being is treated as secondary.”

The discussion also examined the impact of Nigeria’s competitive academic environment and the growing influence of social media, which experts say amplifies unrealistic standards of success.

Ms. Oyewole warned that constant comparison with curated online lifestyles can fuel self-doubt and emotional distress among young people.
She identified warning signs of burnout to include persistent fatigue, irritability, emotional instability, and declining motivation.

To mitigate the risks, she advised young people to prioritise rest, maintain balanced routines, engage in physical activity, and build supportive social relationships.

Both speakers called for broader cultural and workplace shifts that recognise mental health as essential to sustainable achievement.

“Mental health is not a luxury,” Ms. Oyewole concluded. “It is the foundation of lasting success.”

Experts say conversations around mental well-being are increasingly important in challenging harmful societal norms and promoting healthier approaches to ambition, achievement, and personal fulfilment among Nigerian youths.