Lagos: The Society of Family Physicians of Nigeria (SOFPON) has emphasized the importance of integrating mental health services into primary care through family physicians to improve mental health outcomes. Dr. Blessing Chukwukelu, the president of SOFPON, made this statement during a news conference commemorating World Family Doctor Day.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, World Family Doctor Day, celebrated globally on May 19, underscores the crucial role family doctors play in mental wellness, focusing on the interdependence between the well-being of doctors and their ability to care for patients. The theme for the 2025 celebration is ‘Building Mental Resilience in a Changing World’. Dr. Chukwukelu highlighted that primary care is uniquely positioned to promote mental wellness due to its emphasis on long-term relationships, continuity of care, and a person-centered approach. This integration aligns with the World Health Organization’s recommendations for low and middle-income countries like Nigeria to enhance mental health outcomes.
Dr. Chukwukelu stated that such an approach allows early diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, preventing escalation to crises. She pointed out the significant burden of mental illness in Nigeria, often hidden by the stigma surrounding mental health issues. This stigma leads to delays in diagnosis, hinders access to treatment, and perpetuates a cycle of suffering with severe consequences.
The shortage of psychiatrists, with a ratio of one psychiatrist to 700,000 patients, particularly affects access to specialized care in rural and underserved areas. Dr. Chukwukelu noted that routine screening for mental health conditions in primary care settings is unmet due to the lack of culturally appropriate standardized screening tools in Nigeria. The situation is compounded by insufficient training in mental healthcare for primary care staff.
Dr. Chukwukelu emphasized the critical role of family physicians in addressing these challenges. As the first point of contact in the healthcare system, family doctors are strategically positioned to conduct initial mental health screenings using validated tools like the General Health Questionnaire (GHO-12) or the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHO-9), which have been successfully piloted in some Nigerian primary care settings. These screenings can identify individuals at risk of mental health problems, allowing for early intervention and timely referral to specialized services.
Family doctors’ presence in communities enables them to raise awareness about mental health issues, reduce stigma, and encourage individuals to seek help without fear of judgment. Through targeted training, family physicians acquire the necessary skills to manage common mental disorders effectively.
Dr. Chukwukelu stressed that SOFPON is promoting a shift from the unattainable idea of perfect mental health to building resilience, adaptability, and balance in an ever-changing world. She acknowledged the challenges of mental health care but noted that they are surmountable through collaboration across sectors and harnessing collective expertise.
Similarly, Dr. Sixtus Ozuomba, Lagos State Chairman of SOFPON, urged family doctors to prioritize their mental wellness to function effectively for their patients. Dr. Ozuomba noted that doctors are not immune to social and economic challenges that could impact their mental health. He emphasized that attention to mental well-being enables both doctors and patients to thrive together, creating a healthier and more resilient healthcare system.
He revealed that SOFPON is collaborating with R-Jolad Hospital to celebrate World Family Doctor’s Day with an awareness walk and free health outreach for the public.