The Starburg Empowerment Foundation has urged Nigerians to replace mental health stigma with compassion. On World Mental Health Day 2026, the foundation's Executive Director, Comrade Gloria Bakare, emphasized the need to amplify the voices of people with lived experiences and expand access to professional mental health support. The day's theme, “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” highlights the importance of involving individuals with mental health challenges in policy development.
According to Bakare, stigma, misconceptions, and discrimination prevent many people from speaking openly about their mental health struggles and seeking care. She noted that mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, social status, or economic circumstances. The foundation reaffirmed its commitment to promoting mental health awareness, empowering vulnerable individuals, and encouraging access to professional care.
Bakare called on government agencies, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and civil society groups to strengthen collaboration in promoting mental health education and creating safe environments. She emphasized that mental health support is a shared responsibility and that families, friends, and community members can make a difference by listening without judgment and showing empathy.
The Starburg Empowerment Foundation's Executive Director urged stakeholders to translate awareness into practical action. She stressed that listening to people with lived experiences is essential to building inclusive communities where mental health is prioritized. Bakare also called for sustained advocacy and collective commitment to ensure that mental health challenges are met with understanding rather than stigma.
Bakare emphasized the need for greater understanding, inclusion, and compassion in addressing mental health challenges. She encouraged stakeholders to replace prejudice with understanding, rejection with inclusion, and silence with meaningful conversations. The foundation aims to challenge harmful stereotypes and promote mental health awareness.
On World Mental Health Day 2026, Bakare urged Nigerians to prioritize mental health and create a supportive environment. She noted that every voice matters, every story deserves respect, and every life has value. The Starburg Empowerment Foundation is committed to promoting mental health awareness and empowering vulnerable individuals.
The foundation's call to action emphasizes the importance of collective responsibility in promoting mental health support. Bakare's statement encourages Nigerians to take action and create a society where mental health is prioritized and individuals can seek support with dignity.
Key points
- Starburg Empowerment Foundation's Executive Director, Gloria Bakare, calls for an end to mental health stigma and discrimination.
- The theme of World Mental Health Day 2026 is “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change.”
- Bakare emphasizes the need for greater understanding, inclusion, and compassion in addressing mental health challenges.
