The Catholic Archbishop of Kaduna, Most Reverend Matthew Ndagoso says the ongoing economic hardship, insecurity and other challenges are impacting on the mental health of Nigerians.
Archbishop Ndagoso, stated this during the 2024 Annual General Assembly of the Catholic Archdiocese in Kaduna, North-West Nigeria.
Speaking on the theme, “Integrating Mental Health into Pastoral Care in the Archdiocese of Kaduna,” Most Reverend Ndagoso noted that Nigeria has faced a series of challenges over the past 13 years. These include insurgency, banditry, kidnapping for ransom, conflicts between farmers and herders, ethno-religious conflicts and the rising cost of living.
He emphasised that these forms of insecurity and socio-economic challenges are contributing to depression, among Nigerians.
The Archbishop therefore urged government at all levels to urgently address the issues, which he identified as key contributors to the deteriorating mental health of Nigerians.
The General Assembly also urged religious leaders to continue preaching messages of hope, to encourage people to find reasons to live and persevere.
