Lagos introduces new mental health helpline – WMD2024
Babajide Sanwo-Olu
Lagos introduces new mental health helpline – WMD2024
In a bid to enhance mental health services across Lagos, the state government has introduced a new mental health helpline, the Lagos Lifeline Smart Number: 0700 000 MIND (0700 000 6463).
This initiative, announced at the “Lift Up Hope” event in JJT Park, Ikeja, commemorating World Mental Health Day, adds to the existing Lagos Lifeline number (090 9000 MIND).
Organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Health, the event featured a lecture, discussions on mental health in the workplace, and the symbolic release of green balloons, representing hope and resilience.
The theme, “Mental Health in the Workplace,” revealed the importance of fostering supportive work environments to improve productivity and well-being.
First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, emphasized the vital role mental health plays in daily life. Represented by Dr. Laja Odunuga, she called for collective action to increase awareness, stating, “There is no health without mental health.” She stressed the need for safe, healthy work environments, warning that poor mental health could reduce productivity and urging employers to prioritize the mental well-being of their staff.
Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, also spoke passionately about the workplace’s role in mental health, lamenting the stigma that often prevents individuals from seeking help. She advocated for a cultural shift to view asking for help as a strength, not a weakness. “This stigma around mental health must end,” she said, highlighting the importance of Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to support mental resilience in the workforce.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, reinforced the ministry’s focus on mental health, citing initiatives like LagosMiND, a volunteer program that engages over 100 volunteers in research and community-based projects. He announced plans to expand digital mental health resources and emphasized collaborations with various agencies to promote mental health awareness and support.
Dr. Tolu Ajomale, Head of Special Projects and Mental Health, provided insights into the state’s ongoing efforts to improve access to mental health services, including the hotline launched in 2021. The new smart number, 0700 000 MIND, will allow licensed counselors to provide remote support to residents and individuals beyond Lagos.
The “Lift Up Hope” event concluded with the ceremonial release of green balloons, signifying the collective commitment to overcoming the stigma surrounding mental health.
