In a week long celebration of Mental Health Day at Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), the Department of Psychiatry continued with a series of insightful and impactful events aimed at fostering a healthier workplace environment. The highlight of the day was an opening remark by Professor Taiwo James Obindo, the president of the Psychiatric Association of Nigeria. Prof. Obindo emphasized the critical importance of mental health in the workplace, reminding attendees that “there is no true health without mental health.” He urged individuals to prioritize their mental well-being and seek appropriate care when needed.
In his remarks, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of JUTH, Dr. Pokop W. Bupwatda commended the hospital’s employees for their dedication to supporting one another’s mental health. He praised the psychiatric department for organizing these events, which he described as vital for promoting mental health among workers. The CMD’s words were a reminder of the importance of a supportive and caring workplace culture.
The event saw significant attendance, with representatives from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and FIDSON, all showing their support for the mental health initiatives.
Mrs. Lilian Banah, the Monitoring and Evaluating Officer of the WHO, delivered a lecture on the importance of mental health in the workplace. She identified several factors that can contribute to mental health problems, including bullying, harassment, abuse, exploitation, and discrimination. Mrs. Banah urged individuals and work colleagues to actively oppose such practices, highlighting the detrimental impact they can have on mental health if left unchecked.
She also called on work supervisors and employees to treat each other with care and respect, emphasizing the need to consider the mental health of all workers. Furthermore, Mrs. Banah appealed to the government to provide support that would enable workers to maintain good mental health and work in conducive environments.
During the course of the event, an award of excellence were handed out to a few members of the management team which includes the Chief Medical Director, the Director of Administration, the Director of Finance and the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee. Also, the award of service and recognition were presented to some members of the psychiatry department and partners of the department.
The Mental Health Week celebrations at JUTH continue to underscore the significance of mental health awareness and the collective effort needed to create a supportive work environment.
GALLERY
