Economic Instability, Life Pressures Significant Contributors to Mental Disorders - UNICAL Professor Udofia
The 127th Inaugural Lecturer of the University of Calabar (Unical), Prof. Owoidoho Udofia has identified urbanization, economic instability, and modern life pressures as significant contributors to the rising trend of mental disorders.
philips22 
The 127th Inaugural Lecturer of the University of Calabar (Unical), Prof. Owoidoho Udofia has identified urbanization, economic instability, and modern life pressures as significant contributors to the rising trend of mental disorders.
Prof. Udofia stated this at the institution's International Conference Centre while delivering the institution's inaugural lecture on the topic "Measuring Madness: Within, Without, and In-Between".
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The inaugural lecturer stated that urbanization often leads to the breakdown of traditional social support systems, increased isolation, and stress, which can exacerbate mental health issues.He also noted that economic instability and unemployment significantly contribute to mental health problems due to financial stress and uncertainty, leading to anxiety and depression.
Professor Udofia, a Professor of Psychiatry, maintained that rapid urbanization in Nigeria has led to significant changes in lifestyle and community structures, increasing stress and reducing the availability of traditional support systems.
He added that ongoing conflicts and displacement in some regions of Nigeria also contribute to the mental health burden, with many individuals experiencing trauma and stress.
Professor Udofia emphasized that the stigma associated with mental illness in Nigeria often prevents individuals from seeking help, leading to underreporting and inadequate treatment.
The Professor of Psychiatry noted that the healthcare system's limited capacity to address mental health needs due to insufficient funding and resources further aggravates the situation.
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The Inaugural lecturer averred that individuals with strong social connections live longer and experience better mental and physical health, adding that social well-being plays a major role in overall life satisfaction.
He called on the Vice Chancellor to consider extending Medical School Psychological services to all staff and students.
The Vice Chancellor of Unical, Professor Florence Obi described the topic as "apt and expository," highlighting the importance of good mental health for achieving set goals.
Prof Florence Obi represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research, Linkages and Collaboration, Prof Peter Okafor emphasized that staff must maintain good mental health to carry out tasks with precision.
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The lecture was marked by the presentation of a memento to the Inaugural lecturer by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor on behalf of the Vice Chancellor.
