Nigeria’s Mental Health Crisis Linked to Rising Domestic Violence, Expert Warns
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Bauchi, March 4, 2025 (NAN) – Dr. Fawaz Babandi, a Consultant Psychiatrist at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBTH), has urged the Nigerian government to prioritize mental health services in hospitals to address the growing incidence of domestic violence. Babandi highlighted that many violent incidents, including family killings, are often triggered by untreated mental health issues, presenting as symptoms such as poor sleep, loss of interest, and prolonged headaches.
He stressed the importance of integrating mental health care into primary healthcare services, which currently lack the necessary resources. “Mental health has been neglected for too long, and this has contributed to the violence we see today. Healthcare workers are not trained to identify or manage mental health issues, exacerbating the situation,” Babandi said.
Recent data further emphasizes the severity of the problem. Studies show that one in four Nigerians suffers from mental health conditions, yet psychiatric facilities are scarce. Domestic violence remains a critical concern, with national statistics indicating that 30% of Nigerian women aged 15-49 have experienced physical violence, while 68% have faced emotional, economic, or sexual abuse. Babandi argued that addressing mental health is crucial for reducing domestic violence and fostering safer communities.
