Provost and Medical Director of Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Dr. Timothy Adewale, has revealed that the renowned hospital popularly called ‘Aro’ admits between 250 and 300 new patients fighting mental illness every month. Adewale made this revelation today at a press conference and seminar organized by the hospital to mark this year’s World Mental Health Day, with the theme, ‘Young People and Mental Health In A Changing World’, which took place in Iwe Iroyin, Oke Ilewo, Abeokuta. “On a monthly basis, we have a record of 250 to 300 patients in our hospital. I am not talking about those ones who are already with us. These are the new patients.” He said. “Half of all mental illness begins by the age of 14, but most cases go undetected and untreated. In terms of the burden of the disease among adolescents, depression is the third leading cause.”
Adewale identified the harmful use of alcohol and illicit drugs among adolescents as a key factor that leads to mental illness. “Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds. Harmful use of alcohol and illicit drugs among adolescents are other major issues in many countries and can lead to risky behaviors such as unsafe sex, dangerous driving, and crimes.” He further called on the government to invest in programmes that will help the mental health of young people. “Investment by governments and the involvement of social, health, education sector and the media in comprehensive, integrated, evidence-based programmes for the mental health of young people is essential.
“This investment should be linked to programmes to raise awareness among adolescents and young adults on ways to look after their mental health, and to help peers, parents, and teachers to know how to support their friends, children and students.” He said.
| Posted: at | |
crocatum
emmafunxu
TRENDING GISTS 
Banner Calling Out "Home Wrecker" With Her Face & Work Place Display On Plastered By A Roadside
How Bandits Storm Kaduna Community In Fresh Attack, Killed 23 Persons
Mother Who Admitted Smothering Her 2month Old Baby To Death With Pillow While High On Meth Is Found Not Guilty
I Wish They'll Bring Back Those Days When Men Will Go To War And Never Return - Woman Blows Hot
Controversial Singer, Portable Celebrates Wife, Bewaji On Her Birthday, Shares Lovely Photos
VID: Tiktoker Nickie DaBarbie Accuses Singer, Skiibi Of Attempting To Use Her For Ritual
Is It Normal For A Man To Wash His Partner's Pant? - Actor Adeniyi Johnson Asks