A mental health professional has cautioned that stigma, economic instability, and societal pressure are compelling numerous young Africans to silently endure emotional turmoil, often with insufficient access to supportive environments.
In a discussion with PREMIUM TIMES, Ridwan Oyenuga, the founder of SereniMind, stated that youths across the continent are grappling with challenges like unemployment, academic pressures, familial expectations, and the constant comparisons exacerbated by social media.
Based on insights from his interactions with young individuals via the SereniMind initiative, Oyenuga pointed out that stigma and apprehension about being judged inhibit many from pursuing mental health assistance.
He observed that young Africans are frequently expected to maintain emotional resilience despite grappling with anxiety, stress, and emotional exhaustion.
"That silent pressure accumulates over time," he remarked, stressing that many youths do not feel secure enough to discuss their mental health openly.
According to Oyenuga, mental health misconceptions remain prevalent in numerous communities, where emotional difficulties are often associated with weakness, spiritual shortcomings, or a lack of prayer.
He further noted that younger generations are usually instructed to conceal their feelings rather than express them, which complicates the recognition of mental health issues as legitimate concerns.
Transforming these perceptions requires ongoing education and dialogues that resonate with young people's experiences rather than depending solely on clinical terminology.
Scope of Adolescent Mental Health Issues
In October of the previous year, PREMIUM TIMES highlighted that the World Health Organisation (WHO) revealed that between 10% and 20% of adolescents worldwide experience mental health disorders—such as depression and psychosis—many of which emerge during the ages of 11 to 18.
During the 2025 International Adolescent Health Week in Abuja, the WHO’s Country Representative in Nigeria, Pavel Ursu, remarked that mental health challenges in younger populations remain largely unassessed and untreated, leading to significant long-term societal and health ramifications.
The WHO also cautioned that delaying interventions during adolescence raises the chances of enduring mental health issues.
Digital Platforms as Dual-Edged Swords
Oyenuga indicated that digital platforms have created environments where young individuals feel more at ease sharing their experiences and connecting with peers who may understand their struggles.
However, he also cautioned that social media can exacerbate the urge to project an emotionally stable image, potentially intensifying anxiety.
He pointed out that digital platforms can act as tools for mental health education and peer support if utilized consciously and judiciously.
Moreover, he clarified that a common belief is that mental health disorders only manifest during a visible crisis.
"Stress, burnout, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion are all valid mental health concerns," he affirmed.
Many young Africans, he added, are reluctant to seek assistance due to the perception that strong individuals do not experience difficulties, often waiting until their situations become unmanageable.
Balancing Necessity and Wellness
Oyenuga acknowledged the challenge of prioritizing mental health in environments where economic survival is paramount.
Nevertheless, he noted an increasing awareness among young people that looking after their mental health can enhance their performance academically, professionally, and within their families.
"Rest, establishing boundaries, and seeking help are increasingly recognized as strengths rather than selfishness," he concluded.
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