Nasarawa govt calls for regular check-ups to prevent mental illness
The Nasarawa State government has emphasised the importance of regular mental health check-ups for adolescents to prevent mental illnesses, which are currently rampant in the country.
Gaza Gwamna, state commissioner for health, made the call at a press conference on Tuesday in Lafia as part of activities to commemorate the 2025 International Adolescent Health Week and World Mental Health Day.
Mr Gwamna urged parents, guardians, and caregivers to prioritise the mental well-being of adolescents and encourage them to speak openly about their emotional struggles without fear of stigmatisation.
He explained that regular check-ups can help identify early signs of mental health issues and help towards timely interventions.
“Mental health is an integral part of overall health, and we recognise the need to prioritise mental health support systems, especially for adolescents navigating the challenges of growing up.
“It is important for parents, guardians, and caregivers to assist the young people to develop the resilience needed to navigate challenges during adolescence and transition into healthy adulthood,” he added.
The commissioner noted that adolescents are vulnerable to mental health conditions and, if not carefully handled, can degenerate, thereby affecting their academic performance, decision-making and overall health.
Mr Gwamna listed some of the common mental health disorders to include anxiety, depression and attention deficit, among others.
He urged that anyone experiencing any of the disorders should be given support to overcome them.
He said that regular check-ups and support from loved ones would have a positive impact on the mental well-being of adolescents, enabling them to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
The commissioner advised the public to visit any government hospital for a check-up to assess their mental status and appreciated the media and other partners for their collaboration in improving the health of the people.
He, therefore, called on the members of the public to seek appropriate information from medical experts and dispel insinuations and misinformation about the causes of mental illness.
(NAN)
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
Agriculture
FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology
The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
Heading 5
State police may be misused for political victimisation if systemic corruption persists, Anglican bishop says
“If corruption remains prevalent, those in state authority might use the structure to victimise their perceived enemies,” he said.
Heading 2
Lagos urges residents to take ownership of housing estates, maintain infrastructure
The state government noted that taking such responsibility would also enhance security and sustain property value.
States
Gov. Uzodimma urges Imo youths to embrace skills development
He charged the youths to be positive change makers.
States
NSCDC boss lauds Oyo kidnap victims’ rescue team
He described the successful rescue mission as a clear demonstration of the strength of inter-agency collaboration and intelligence sharing.
Economy
Oilserv begins offshore pipeline installation for NLNG gas transmission expansion
The project forms part of the NLNG’s strategy to expand its gas transmission network.
States
Bauchi govt urges increased birth registration to protect children’s rights
She noted that reliable population data remains the foundation of effective governance.
