Feyisayo Ogunbiyi

Nigeria’s economic crisis has done more than just empty wallets—it has slowly and silently emptied hope from the hearts of millions. The average Nigerian wakes each day not just to rising food prices and unpaid bills, but to an invisible war within. Depression, often undiagnosed and dismissed as weakness or spiritual attack, has tightened its grip across demographics—students, fathers, mothers, traders—each masking pain with routine, faith, or laughter. In this piece, I take you through the intimate struggles behind everyday resilience, highlighting how silent suffering has become the nation’s unofficial anthem.

This is not just another story on mental health; it is a mirror held up to a society that prides itself on strength, but quietly bleeds inside. Through the lived experiences of everyday Nigerians, this narrative uncovers the emotional and psychological cost of survival in a nation where therapy is luxury and silence is the norm. From the hushed cries of a final-year student to the stern resolve of a father expecting the worst, this chronicle seeks not pity, but understanding. It is a call to acknowledge that resilience, though admirable, is no substitute for proper care and compassion.

There is no doubt that Nigeria’s current economic situation has come as a profound shock to its citizens.

This disorienting shift has significantly increased the risk of depression among the populace. Many have developed high blood pressure, while others are suffering from various mental health-related conditions.

According to a 2019 Al Jazeera report, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that approximately 50 million Nigerians—roughly one in four—experience some form of mental illness, including depression. Notably, the economy at that time was far more stable compared to its current state.

The Nigerian Medical Association, during the 2020 World Mental Health Day commemoration, reported that only 350 psychiatrists serve a population of over 200 million people.

This acute shortage of mental health professionals, combined with inadequate infrastructure and pervasive negative public attitudes toward mental illness, has resulted in about 80 percent of people with serious mental health conditions being unable to access proper care.

PLATFORM TIMES has discovered that many Nigerians now suffer from high blood pressure and other mental health conditions, many of which can be traced back to depression. It was observed that while most individuals cannot clearly articulate the state of their mental health, a simple conversation often reveals the silent burden—depression—eroding their emotional well-being.

It would not be an exaggeration to imagine streets lined with corpses if Nigerians were not naturally resilient. In the face of overwhelming pressure, Nigerians are known for their ability to adapt, improvise, and survive. Despite the high risks associated with depression, many have devised personal coping mechanisms to manage its impact.

…Struggles in School

Like many students in Nigeria’s higher institutions, Iyanuoluwa, a final-year student at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, has suffered significant financial hardship, leaving an indelible mark on her academic performance. Her situation became increasingly depressive, deeply affecting her mental health. Semester after semester, her academic failures mounted, the result of ongoing psychological exhaustion.

“I could barely afford garri some days. I often had to trek long distances on an empty stomach just to attend lectures. Most of the time, I couldn’t concentrate in class because my mind would drift—overwhelmed by numerous worries—rent, school fees, and other bills,” she shared amidst tears.

When asked how she manages her mental health despite the financial strain, she responded with a solemn smile, her eyes still wet with tears.

“I just bury myself in the internet. I know data is expensive now, so I rely on night-time subscriptions and sleep during the day. Social media is my companion. I’m a ghost user—I don’t post often. But once I watch two or three comedy skits, I momentarily forget my troubles. That has been my survival strategy,” she explained.

… Expect the Worst Daily

Depression is often difficult to detect in men, particularly those who are fathers. Many men conceal their emotions, unlike their female counterparts who are generally more expressive.

Mr. Akeem, a father of three, shared with PLATFORM TIMES how he has suffered financial setbacks under the current economic climate and what motivates him to persevere despite the bleakness.

“At first, I thought the hardship would be temporary. I never imagined we would still be enduring this harsh economy after so long. As time went on, the reality dawned on me—and I began to ask myself, what if this never ends?” he reflected.

“To cope, I had to devise ways to cut down expenses. Thankfully, my wife is very understanding. She adjusted alongside me. Sometimes, I even trek for a distance before boarding public transport, just to save a little.”

Mr. Akeem believes the only way to manage depression under Nigeria’s current conditions is to always expect the worst each day.

“Every morning, before stepping out, I prepare for the worst. So, when it eventually happens, it doesn’t hit me too hard. That way, I’m less likely to break down emotionally,” he said.

… Get Busy

A similar tale of struggle and survival is that of Mrs. Oritayo, a mother of five, who transitioned from being a full-time housewife to a petty trader in a bid to combat depression.

“For the first ten years of my marriage, I was a full housewife. There was no issue—we relied on my husband’s income. Back then, I had mastered the art of preparing a decent meal with very little. School fees were not as outrageous as they are now,” she recalled.

“However, things began to change about two years ago. I started my petty trade a year ago because my full-time housewife status began to feel like a burden. Though my husband never directly said so, I could sense it. His income could no longer sustain the family. His behavior during those times dampened my spirit.”

“I started to lose my appetite. A friend advised me to get busy, to distract myself. I took her advice and started trading. Interacting with both pleasant and difficult customers took my mind off my problems. Although my trade doesn’t yield much, it has helped safeguard my mental health,” she narrated.

“Depression is a White Man’s Disease”

“I don’t believe in depression; it’s a white man’s disease,” declared Mr. Akuburu, a newlywed commercial motorcyclist. He is firmly of the opinion that depression is not an African reality.

Speaking with our correspondent, he explained, “In Nigeria, we are too busy to be depressed. White people are jobless; that’s why they have time to dwell on such things.

“Just imagine—I leave home early and return late, only to start planning for the next day. Where’s the time to get depressed?

“Our Nigerian mothers never indulged us emotionally from childhood. Tell a Nigerian mother you’re depressed, and a slap will reset your brain and bring back your joy instantly,” he added with a chuckle.

… “Depression is Demonic” – Pastor

“When God is absent from your life, depression creeps in. Depression is a demonic spirit. A life without God invites demonic forces,” declared Pastor Taiwo Taiwo, a youth pastor. He strongly believes depression is spiritual and results from a lack of divine presence.

He elaborated, “One of the fruits of the Spirit is joy. Depression is the direct opposite of joy. Joy can only be supplied by the Holy Spirit. When the Holy Spirit is suppressed, joy disappears, and depression takes over.”

Pastor Taiwo then outlined strategies for managing depression, including daily communion with God, unwavering faith, open communication with trusted companions, overcoming anxiety, and cultivating contentment.

… Depression is the Most Prevalent Psychological Disorder – Psychiatrist

Dr. Abayomi Olajide, the current Secretary General of the Nigerian Psychiatric Association, described depression as the most widespread psychological disorder in the country. He further linked the condition to the increasing consumption of hard drugs.

“Depression remains the most prominent psychological disorder globally. Although substance use disorder is also an epidemic, it often stems from depression, as individuals adopt unhealthy coping mechanisms in response to economic hardship,” he said.

“The truth is that Nigerians are struggling with their mental well-being. Depression has been prevalent long before this current economic downturn. Studies indicate that one in every four individuals in Nigeria may be battling depression.”

Dr. Olajide added, “That statistic predates the current economic surge. Depression thrives in poverty-stricken environments.”

He  urged  the government to take decisive action.

“The government must prioritize mental health as a public emergency. There should be increased funding for health education programs, and a nationwide shift in social orientation. All arms of government, particularly the Ministries of Information and Orientation, must be mobilized to provide the public with the knowledge and tools to improve their mental health,” he advised.

'

'

'

'

Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com

We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE