Decriminalisation of suicide should lead to prevention
The decision by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to approve an amendment to the National Mental Health Act to decriminalise attempted suicide is a welcome development. Indeed, it is one step that is long overdue. For decades, Nigerians in distress have been caught between two cruel realities: one, the pain that drives them to contemplate […]
The Nigerian Federal Executive Council's recent approval of an amendment to the National Mental Health Act to decriminalise attempted suicide marks a long overdue shift in approach. For years, Nigerians struggling with mental health issues have faced a cruel choice between their own pain and an outdated colonial-era law that criminalises what should be seen as a cry for help.
By treating attempted suicide as a public health issue rather than a criminal act, the government recognizes the urgent need for care, protection, and support.
However, decriminalisation is only the first step. The current provisions in the Criminal Code Act and Penal Code often discourage those in distress from seeking help, pushing the problem underground and conflicting with the National Mental Health Act 2021, which already mandates supportive care. To truly make a difference, we must build the systems that prevent individuals from reaching a point of despair, addressing root causes like joblessness, debt, academic pressure, domestic violence, illness, grief, and economic hardship.
Enhancing access to professional counselling is crucial, but Nigeria currently lacks sufficient psychiatrists and clinical psychologists to serve its population of over 220 million. Budgetary commitments are needed to train more mental health professionals and deploy them throughout the federation. Faith institutions, non-governmental organisations, and community leaders must be engaged to lead sensitisation efforts.
By integrating mental health discussions into sermons, community meetings, and traditional ruler engagements, stigma can be reduced, and help-seeking behaviour normalised.
Families play a vital role in prevention. Many Nigerians suffer in silence due to fear of being labelled "weak" or a "burden." Encouraging open conversations about mental health at home is essential to breaking this cycle of silence. Public education campaigns, including radio dramas and school curricula, can teach emotional literacy, empowering individuals to express their feelings without fear of judgment.
Implementation gaps pose a significant risk. Decriminalising attempted suicide without adequate funding, training, and public awareness will yield no meaningful change. The ministries of health and justice, alongside the National Assembly and the task force involved in this amendment, must create a clear and transparent implementation plan with achievable timelines. Only by combining legal change with comprehensive support and awareness efforts can Nigeria truly turn the tide on suicide prevention.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Trust's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
