The Jeffrey Tyrone Moore Foundation, a non-governmental organization based in Abuja, demonstrated its commitment to mental health advocacy by extending its awareness campaign to secondary schools. Themed “Let Your Whisper Be Heard,” the initiative aimed to educate students about mental health, its symptoms, and preventive measures.
The foundation conducted its latest edition of the Mental Health Awareness Campaign on November 29, 2023.
Mary Moore, the Executive Director, delivered a key message to students, emphasizing that mental health is a universal human right, urging them to speak out and share their challenges.
During her address, Moore stressed the importance of self-belief and the transformative power of positive affirmations. She encouraged students to believe in themselves, speak kindly to themselves, and surround themselves with positive influences.
Dr. Imaobong Edemaise, the resource person, referenced the World Health Organization’s definition of mental health as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of diseases or infirmity.” She detailed various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, substance disorder, developmental disorder, and eating disorder.
Dr. Edemaise highlighted factors affecting mental health, including biological elements, hormonal imbalances, environmental influences, inadequate healthcare, social factors, and financial stress. Students were advised to be vigilant about early warning signs such as anxiety, unhappiness, sleep difficulties, appetite changes, and feelings of isolation.
The event included essential components such as Mental Health Ambassadorial nominations, distribution of sanitary towels to girls, T-shirts to boys, writing materials, and a fun day with refreshments. Notably, counseling sessions were integrated as part of the comprehensive approach to addressing mental health concerns among students.
Miss Miracle Isaac of JSS2A and Master Dickson Kromlep of JSS3A emerged as “Young Mental Health Ambassadors” due to their insightful responses during the event. Board Director Maxwel Omar Gabari adorned them with official attire, symbolizing their role as advocates for mental health within Government Junior Secondary School Garki.
These newly appointed ambassadors will play a vital role in raising awareness and fostering a supportive environment for mental health. The Jeffrey Tyrone Moore Foundation continues to make significant strides in advancing mental health awareness and promoting a proactive approach to mental well-being.
