TheCable

The federal government has launched a partnership with Sunshine Series Organisation (SSO), a non-governmental organisation, to provide mental health support to persons affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

The event was held on Tuesday in Abuja.

George Akume, minister of special duties and intergovernmental affairs, while speaking at the event, said the initiative, mind wheel project, includes the provision of a toll-free line — 112.

Akume said the initiative is focused mainly on providing support to persons with mental health challenges developed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This historic launch of the mind wheel toll-free line is a free call line aimed at providing a sustainable social change and development in mental health and well being of Nigerians,” he said.

“This is a collaboration with the ministry of special duties and intergovernmental affairs, ministry of communication and digital economy, and the private sector.”

The project will feature free tele-counselling services.

Also speaking at the event, Aisha Bubah, founder of sunshine series mind wellness organisation, said the project started in 2020 and has reached over 5,000 Nigerians, directly and indirectly through counselling, capacity building, and webinars.

Bubah added that more partners are required to promote the project, as mental health has been severely underfunded globally, especially in low and middle-income countries.

Precious Oyutu, who represented Muhammad Marwa, chairman, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), commended SSO for the effort invested towards tackling mental health challenges in the society.

According to NAN, SSO is a psychotherapy centre that focuses on enhancing psychological wellbeing of individuals and organisations, through multicultural and diverse range of services and therapeutic interventions.