The Star Children Development Initiative in collaboration with Jars Education Institute, the United States of America,recently organised a Mental Health Awareness Walk in Ibadan.
The mental health week had the theme: “Moving Together For Trauma Care”.
The road walk was part of activities marking the mental week.
The Oyo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs Toyin Balogun; some senior officials of her ministry; Mrs. Fadesola Adelani of The Star Children Development Initiative, officers of Red Cross Society, and others were part of the walk.
They walked from Kunle Ara Pharmacy to the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion.
In her remarks, the Country Director of The Star Children Development Initiative, Mrs. Fadesola Adelani, said trauma is real and dis awareness is a powerful statement that trauma care is a collective responsibility and is a reminder that no one shld suffer alone.
The Country Director, said: “On behalf of Jars Education Institute USA Prof. Akindotun Merino a world renown psychologist par excellence in America and Mrs. Grace Alexander who is the CEO/Founder SCDI who is an alumna of Jars Institute who is the convener of this trauma walk which is happening the world.
“One in three individuals experience mental health conditions in their lifetime. So in this precious, hard times we experience economic recession, rape, political upheavals, kidnapping, domestic violence/abuse where persons living with disabilities are not exempted – all these can cause trauma.
“These can affect our thoughts and feelings which can extend far beyond mental health this is cos it can affect our relationship, work ethics and of course hinder our professional success and work balance in our various dept. This can perpetuate circles of poverty and inequality.
“This is why we are here to raise awareness about trauma. Trauma is real and dis awareness is a powerful statement that trauma care is a collective responsibility and is a reminder that no one shld suffer alone. We are all responsible for our well-being..We should all know that trauma is beatable and treatable. Oh yes! 2gether we can win”.
The Commissioner said it was imperative to ignite a movement of compassion and understanding and be voices that speak up for those who are silenced by their pain.
She said: “Today, as we walk side by side, let us not only raise awareness but also ignite a movement of compassion and understanding. Let us be the voices that speak up for those who are silenced by their pain.
‘’In a world where mental health struggles are often overlooked, it’s imperative that we come together as a community to support those who need it most.
“The Star Children Development Initiative has shown us the power of unity and collaboration. Together, we can break the stigma surrounding mental health and ensure that everyone has access to the care and support they deserve”.