By Obianuju Isima
The Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) has called for stronger mental health support for people living with HIV, stressing that emotional and psychological well being is essential to effective HIV treatment, care and overall quality of life.
The call was made on World Mental Health Day, observed annually on Oct. 10, with the agency urging families, healthcare providers, community leaders and institutions to create supportive environments where people living with HIV can access care without fear of stigma, discrimination or rejection.
The Executive Director of ANSACA, Dr. Nkem Okeke, said living with HIV can come with emotional challenges, including anxiety, depression, social isolation and fear of disclosure, particularly in environments where misconceptions and discrimination persist.
“Our HIV response must go beyond testing and treatment. We must also protect the mental and emotional well being of people living with HIV. No one should suffer in silence or be denied dignity, compassion and support because of their HIV status,” he said.
Dr. Okeke explained that integrating mental health services into HIV care could encourage people to seek help early, improve treatment adherence, strengthen retention in care and promote better health outcomes.
He reaffirmed ANSACA’s commitment to achieving zero new HIV infections, zero AIDS-related deaths and zero HIV-related stigma and discrimination by 2030, as part of efforts to build a healthier Anambra State.
The Executive Director commended the administration of Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, for supporting public health interventions and providing an enabling environment for improved access to healthcare services across the state.
He called on families, religious leaders, schools, workplaces and community organisations to show empathy towards people living with HIV, challenge harmful stereotypes and encourage anyone experiencing emotional or psychological distress to seek professional help.
Dr. Okeke urged people living with HIV to take their prescribed antiretroviral medicines consistently, attend scheduled medical appointments and seek appropriate mental health support whenever necessary.
As part of its commitment to accessible HIV information and care, ANSACA reminded Ndi Anambra that its Telehealth Service provides HIV related information, counselling, prevention guidance and referrals.
ANSACA Telehealth Service Contacts
Phone calls:
- 0704 800 6130
- 0703 628 5379
WhatsApp:
- 0704 650 5691
- 0808 716 4626
Individuals experiencing a mental health crisis should seek immediate professional assistance at the nearest appropriate health facility.
“As we work towards an AIDS-free Anambra State, we must recognise that mental health is an integral part of overall health. A healthier society is one where every individual, regardless of HIV status, is treated with dignity, compassion and respect,” Dr. Okeke said.
Obianuju Isima is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
#WorldMentalHealthDay
#ANSACA
#EndHIVStigma
