Dr Maymunah Kadiri, the Medical Director of Pinnacle Medical Services, Lagos, has identified regular physical activity as an effective strategy for preserving mental health.
Kadiri, also a Consultant Neuro-psychiatrist, made the assertion in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Lagos.
She said that regular daily exercise could help to reduce stress, saying that this could include walking, as well as other more intensive exercises.
She noted that making time for physical wellness-promoting activities like exercise and having a balanced diet had direct impact on mental health.
She explained that whether it was reading, listening to music or engaging in mindfulness exercises, making time for relaxation and stress-relieving activities were equally vital.
According to her, stress is reduced and mood is elevated when endorphins are released through exercise.
“Safeguarding mental health has become more crucial for individuals in Nigeria due to the difficulties posed by the current state of the economy.
“Prioritising our mental health during these difficult times is just as important as our physical health.
“Another effective strategy for preserving mental health is regular physical activity.
“Scheduling time for enjoyable activities and relaxation techniques can offer encouragement in the face of uncertainty.
“This routines can involve physical activities, hobbies, going outside or even meditation,” she said.
The Neuro-psychiatrist said that during challenging situations, therapy or counseling can offer a lot of helpful support and direction.
She, therefore, advised that people could seek for support or ask for assistance from friends, family or mental health professionals where needed.
According to her, people should avoid keeping to themselves when facing challenging times, saying that this can lead to suicide.
She identified poverty and frustration as the main causes of suicide, regretting that some people in difficult economic situations had considered suicide rather than speaking out or seeking for help.
“There is need for people to share their worries with others, seek for help rather than bottling them up to avoid depression.
“Too much of worry and depression can push one to commit suicide.
“This is because there are those who think they cannot make it in life due to past failure, disappointment or poverty,” she said.(NAN)
