Mental health has largely been a misunderstood concept, with various schools of thought on the matter.
Some view it as an excuse used by younger people, others think it’s just modern-day jargon, while some use it as a tool to avoid accountability.
It has also been proven that many people aren’t willing to go out of their way to learn about it because they believe they have a good grasp of their own mental well-being and they do not need external sources.Â
About the Webinar
The webinar aims to address the critical issue of mental health stigma in Nigeria. With the guidance of a seasoned medical practitioner, the session will focus on fostering an open dialogue around mental health, dispelling common misconceptions, and promoting understanding and support within communities.
Â
The discussion will provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by individuals with mental health conditions and the importance of creating an environment where these issues can be discussed without fear of judgment.
Keynote Speakers
Meet our speakers
Esther Eruchie
Founder, FriendnPal
Esther Eruchie is the visionary founder behind FriendnPal, Africa's first AI-powered multilingual mental health support app. Her personal tragedy of losing her mother to depression fueled her commitment to bridging the gap in mental health services by offering accessible, personalized support across the continent. She holds a Master's degree in International Law and Diplomacy, equipping her with a global perspective and the ability to tackle complex challenges.
Esther's contributions to mental health and social impact have been widely recognized, including nominations for the FOYA Healthpreneur of the Year 2023 and her selection as a One Young World Delegate 2024. Her entrepreneurial spirit has earned her a place among the Top 25 Founders for AIF WomHub, solidifying her as a leader in both the tech and social impact sectors.
Dr. Stephen A. Olawuyi
General Physician
Dr Stephen is a general physician with extensive medical experience in the care and management of patients.
An experience spanned in the field of medicine, surgery, paediatrics and Ob/gyn with evidence base practice to improve patient’s outcome.
His passion and interest in patient’s optimal wellbeing allured him towards preventive medicine which he believes is best approach to care in a low socioeconomic country like Nigeria
His keen interest in education, counselling of patients on medical/health related information because of the dearth in medical knowledge he observed in years of practice has made him a desired clinician in various health institutions he has worked.
He has participated in several medical conference in Nigeria and has facilitated several health talks and medical outreaches to corporate organizations and to under-served communities.
He obtained a medical degree from the prestigious college of medicine, University of Lagos. He also possesses certification in basic and advanced life support program.
Currently, he works in the preventive and wellness unit at AXA MANSARD health ltd
Judith-Ada Chiroma
Clinical Psychologist
Judith-Ada Chiroma is a seasoned clinical psychologist with over 7 years of experience in mental health counseling and therapy. Specializing in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and trauma-informed care, she has guided individuals of all ages through challenges such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and relationship issues. A graduate of Nasarawa State University Keffi, Judith-Ada has furthered her expertise with certifications in CBT, Safeguarding, and Trauma-Informed care, enabling her to deliver personalized, culturally sensitive treatment.
Committed to community education, Judith-Ada has led workshops on stress management, resilience, and mental health awareness. She is an active member of the Nigerian Psychological Association (NPA), Nigerian Association of Clinical Psychologists (NACP), and the Counselling Association of Nigeria (CASSON). Her research interests focus on the influence of parenting styles on adolescent behavior, the impact of early childhood experiences on adult mental health, and the role of CBT in the mental health of substance use disorder patients.