The Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, (FNPH) Benin City, joined millions of people across the globe on Friday October 10, 2025, to commemorate the World Mental Health Day, an annual event that has been dedicated to promoting mental well-being and breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness. The 2025 theme, “Access to Service: Mental Health in Emergencies and Catastrophes”, underscores the urgent need for inclusive and responsive mental health systems, especially in times of crisis.
In line with the global observance, staff of the hospital embarked on an awareness campaign across Benin City metropolis, engaging residents in various public spaces, including markets, to educate them on mental health and the need to seek help early. Flyers containing helpful information were distributed to traders, commuters, and members of the public as part of efforts to dispel myths and misconception surrounding mental illness.
Speaking ahead of the event during an interview at Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS) Television, Dr L.O. Amadasu, a Consultant Psychiatrist at the hospital, emphasized the importance of the annual commemoration. He noted that the World Health Organization (WHO) established the day as a platform not just for celebration, but for drawing attention to pressing mental health issues affecting people worldwide. According to Dr Amadasu, “mental health is an aspect of health care that has not received the attention it deserves. One of the principal reasons of marking this day is to sensitize people about what mental health really entails and why it must be taken seriously”.
He further emphasized that mental illness is a condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, background or social status. “Mental illness is not a respecter of persons, families, communities, and governments should show greater empathy and commitment to mental health advocacy and service provision”, he noted. The awareness campaign by FNPH Benin drew commendation from members of the public, who expressed appreciation for the hospital’s continued role in promoting mental well-being and reducing stigma associated with mental disorders.
