A Clinical Psychologist at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Akin Gabriel, says more young people, especially those within the average of 16 years old, are presenting at the hospital due to mental health problems.

The psychologist, a director at the institution, disclosed this in Lagos on Wednesday.

He stated that people were becoming aware of their mental health and bolder to seek help when they felt there was a need.

“More young people are presenting at the hospital. We’re having more of that. Young people within 16 are coming to the hospital with complaints that could be eventually diagnosed as depression or anxiety disorders.

“The generation now are quite informed; they have a lot of information on their hands. They are looking for that extra that will help them manage the information they have to help them out of their situation,” he revealed.

Mr Gabriel cautioned against judgmental statements or behaviours toward individuals perceived to act out of normal.

The psychologist further cautioned against the use of alcohol and other substances in coping with feelings such as low mood, which could be linked to depression.

He emphasised that resorting to alcohol and substance use to feel better or elevate one’s mood was only temporary and could complicate the issue.

“It is just for a short while; after the substance has cleared from the system, they require another one. That is where the cycle of addiction actually starts,” the psychologist said.

Mr Gabriel urged individuals who experienced signs and symptoms associated with mental ailments to seek medical help.

(NAN)