By Judith Oraeki-Anigbogu
The Mayor of Idemili South Local Government Area, Hon. Oluchukwu John Ilogbenu, has called for greater understanding and support for people experiencing mental health challenges, urging residents to end stigma and discrimination.
Ilogbenu made the call in a message to mark the 2026 World Mental Health Day, stressing the importance of mental wellbeing to healthy families and productive communities.
The theme for this year’s observance, “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” highlights the need to listen to people with mental health conditions and include their experiences in decisions affecting their care and wellbeing.
The mayor observed that misconceptions and discrimination often discourage people from speaking openly about mental health challenges or seeking professional help.
He urged residents to replace harmful stereotypes and judgement with empathy and appropriate support, noting that mental health conditions deserve the same attention as other health concerns.
Ilogbenu also called on families, schools, religious institutions, workplaces and community leaders to promote mental health awareness, encourage open conversations and help affected persons access appropriate care.
He emphasised the need to involve people with lived experience in shaping mental health policies and support systems, adding that community and faith based assistance should complement professional care.
The mayor urged residents to foster an environment where people could seek help without fear of shame or discrimination, stressing that compassion and understanding were essential to building healthier communities.
Judith Oraeki-Anigbogu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
#WorldMentalHealthDay
#EndMentalHealthStigma
#IdemiliSouth
