Tuesday, 17th March, 2026 was the World Social Day with the theme: ‘Co-building, Hope and Harmony’. To mark the day, the Social Welfare Unit of Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Benin City carried out awareness campaigns to educate members of the public on how to handle the various mental health issues, in relation to social pressure.
Mrs Dorothy Osaro Odia, Head of Social Welfare Unit who led the campaign enlightened the public on the various health services rendered by the hospital. According to her, the hospital apart from its specialized mental health services, handles general health services; like antenatal and post-natal care, treatment of malaria and other ailments.
Also speaking was Mrs Joan Irowa, Senior Social Welfare Officer who urged members of the public to always visit the health facility with whatever health challenge, stressing that not every persons who comes to psychiatric hospital has mental illness. She added that not every mental health challenge is spiritual as it could be due to social pressure.
Mr Ajayi Oluseyi Victor, Social Welfare Officer Gd. I, emphasized the need for peaceful co-existence among people in the society, urging members of the public to promptly convey their loved ones to the hospital whenever they observe any negative mental behaviour in them their loved ones. Mr Ajayi noted that the action would help to enhance a quicker positive response and healing. The campaign team distributed fliers carrying various messages to the members of the public to further create the awareness.
