A consultant psychiatrist, Dr Stephen Oluwaniyi, has identified stress as a risk factor for developing mental health conditions, advising that Nigerians should endeavour to avoid too much stress.

Mr Oluwaniyi, also the Head, Clinical Services Federal Neuro-psychiatric Hospital Yaba, gave the advice during an interview on Tuesday in Lagos.

According to him, it is imperative that people avoid stress and stressors to safeguard mental health,

He noted that the first step to relieving stress in one’s life is to identify the stressors.

“Everyone experiences stress at various times in their lives. It’s a normal reaction that occurs when an individual encounters changes or challenges (stressors). The human body responds physically and mentally to stress. Stress management involves being able to identify the stressors/causes and using techniques to improve how one responds to the life stressors. These techniques can prevent or ease stress-induced symptoms,” he said.

The psychiatrist said that stress management had become imperative in view of the current economic challenges in the country.

Mr Oluwaniyi, who said that the economic challenges were stressors that could trigger mental health conditions, advised that people should learn to manage what they had and be innovative to overcome the current economic situation in the country.

He said, “Avoiding stress and safeguarding mental health has become more crucial for individuals in Nigeria due to the difficulties posed by the current state of the economy. Prioritising our mental health during these difficult times is just as important as our physical health. Try to be more innovative and content with what you have. Scheduling time for enjoyable activities and relaxation techniques can offer encouragement in the face of uncertainty.’’

The psychiatrist said that engaging in positive activities that give happiness, while avoiding anger could also help prevent stress and depression.

He said that being happy impacts one’s level of productivity at the workplace, adding that happiness also impacts relationships with people.

Besides, Mr Oluwaniyi urged Nigerians to always share their thoughts with positive people to enhance their mental health.

He stated, “Constantly surrounding yourself with positive people will help manage stress/depression. Buying expensive clothes, jewellery will not bring permanent happiness. We need to create time for relaxation and look beyond the economic situation of the country; we need to focus on the positive side in every bad situation.’’.

According to him, another effective strategy for reducing stress and preserving mental health is regular physical activity, saying that stress is reduced and mood elevated when endorphins are released through exercise.

He advised that people should laugh more as studies have shown that laughing reduces the stress hormone cortisol and boosts mood.

“Watch a funny show, or get together with someone who makes you laugh. Making time for physical wellness-promoting activities such as exercise and a balanced diet has a direct impact on mental health. Whether it’s walking, reading, listening to music or engaging in mindfulness exercises, making time for relaxation and stress-relieving activities are equally vital,” he said.

(NAN)