Members of the Oxbow Marino Deck of the National Association of Seadogs(NAS) have expressed concern of the rising rate of cases of depression and mental illness among adolescents in the society.
According to NAS, the number of adolescents who struggle and often face challenges depression and mental imbalance as they transit into adulthood has become disturbing.
The Convener and Capoon of the Oxbow Marino Deck of the National Association of Seadogs(NAS) otherwise known as Pyrate Confraternity, Mr Ebi Ayerite, said the members are concerned about the number of adolescents who struggle and often face challenges depression and mental imbalance as they transit into adulthood.
He emphasized the importance of addressing mental health issues early on and urged participants to take the knowledge gained during the outreach seriously. the members are concerned about the number of adolescents who struggle and often face challenges depression and mental imbalance as they transit into adulthood.
The medical outreach, which was conducted in Yenagoa and under the theme “Promoting Good Mental Health in Adolescence: A Catalyst for Successful Transition from Childhood to Adulthood” was held at the Community Primary School, Central Epie in the state capital and targeted at fostering good mental health among adolescents, illuminated the Common Mental Health Challenges in Adolescence, including Depression, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, Self-Harm, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Around 100 students and four teachers of the Central Epie Secondary School, Opolo-Epie participated in the event, which featured distinguished guest speakers from various fields, including Dr Oru Inetsol of the Department of Internal Medicine at Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital Okolobiri-Yenagoa, Frank Akpojisheri Ogheneochuko of the Department of Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing Sciences at Niger Delta University, and Ene Deriateide Efere, Vice Principal Academics at Bayelsa State School of Nursing Tombia.
The resource persons,urged parents, teachers, and adolescents to remain vigilant for signs of these challenges, encouraging open dialogue and seeking assistance when needed, also emphasizing that recognizing these issues early on is critical to preventing the escalation of mental health challenges into adulthood.
They also urged management of tertiary and secondary institutions of learning in the state to provide practical tools for maintaining good mental health, such as allowing students and teachers to th engage in regular physical activity to manage stress, maintain a healthy daily routine, cultivating mindfulness, limiting screen time, addressing emotions openly, setting realistic goals, practicing effective time management, moderating caffeine and sugar intake, and seeking professional help when necessary.
Participants of the event expressed their gratitude towards the Oxbow Marino Deck of the National Association of Seadogs and Mr Ebi Ayerite for organizing the insightful outreach.
They pledged to integrate the lessons learnt into their daily lives and to spread awareness about the significance of promoting good mental health among adolescents.