At the recent 7th public lecture organized by the Board of Fellows of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (BOF-PSN), Dr. Gbonjubola Abiri, a distinguished Consultant Psychiatrist and CEO of Redimed Consulting Services, emphasized the critical role of mental health in individual well-being and societal progress. Speaking on the theme “Mental Health: A Basic Human Right Crucial to Personal, Community, and Socio-Economic Development,” Dr. Abiri described the topic as "urgent, impactful, and universal," underscoring that mental health, as a basic human right, is fundamental to personal well-being, community resilience, and socio-economic advancement.
“With my work as a psychiatrist, I witness daily how mental health touches every aspect of our lives—from childhood to the workplace, from family dynamics to national economic output,” Dr. Abiri stated. She highlighted the paradox that despite increasing global awareness, mental health remains one of the most neglected areas in public health.
Dr. Abiri noted that “the good news today is that we all have mental health.” She urged the audience to recognize that mental health exists on a continuum and depends on life's challenges and the resilience and support one receives. “We need to reflect on why mental health isn't just a medical issue but a human right,” she asserted, calling on pharmaceutical professionals to play pivotal roles in advancing this cause.
Referencing the World Health Organization’s definition of health, she explained, “Health isn’t just the absence of disease and infirmity but the complete state of physical, mental, and social well-being.” However, she lamented that mental health services remain underfunded, stigmatized, and inaccessible to millions. “More than two-thirds of people suffering from mental health conditions do not receive the help they need,” she revealed.
Addressing the historical mistreatment of individuals with mental illness, Dr. Abiri condemned the abuse faced by these individuals, who are often treated shabbily—starved, chained, and denied proper care. “It is time we recognize that mental health is a basic human right,” she declared. Dr. Abiri urged a shift in the conversation surrounding mental health from one of indifference to one of collective support and obligation.
As she addressed fellow pharmacists, she said, “We must realize that without mental well-being, personal growth is severely limited. Mental health lies at the core of everything we do—our resilience, self-confidence, learning, and productivity.” She pointed out that mental health conditions can affect even the youngest members of society, impeding their academic performance, while adults with depression may underperform at work or withdraw socially, affecting their income and family life.
Dr. Abiri urged pharmacists, being the most accessible healthcare professionals, to take proactive measures in supporting mental health. “You can aid adherence to psychiatric medications, provide psycho-education, and identify patients who may be struggling,” she advised, adding that they can direct individuals to necessary resources and help reduce stigma.
“The greatest deterrent to seeking help for mental health issues is our perception and attitudes toward them,” she asserted, emphasizing that stigma and discrimination stem from society, employers, the media, and even from within families. “As pharmacists, your community presence is a gateway for mental health advocacy and stigma reduction,” she said, calling for collaboration with mental health professionals for holistic care.
Dr. Abiri concluded her address by emphasizing that socio-economic development is closely tied to mental health issues, stating that untreated mental health conditions cost the global economy over $1 trillion annually in lost productivity. “Investing in mental healthcare yields significant returns; for every dollar invested, there is a return of four dollars,” she noted, emphasizing that mental health is not a drain on national resources but a critical investment in sustainable development.
In a powerful call to action, she stated, “Mental health is not a footnote in public health; it is a cornerstone of our human dignity, social justice, and national prosperity.” She urged pharmaceutical professionals not only to dispense medication but to act as gatekeepers and custodians of well-being.
“Let us unite and commit to a world where mental health is prioritized and respected as a fundamental human right," she concluded, echoing the sentiment of Prof. Vikram Patel that “mental health is too important to be left to the professionals alone; mental health is everybody's business.” Dr. Abiri's stirring address called for a collective awakening to prioritize mental health, inspiring those present to advocate for a healthier, more inclusive society.
