young people's mental health wellness- a threat  to national development Dr Doyin Ogunyemi Public Health Physician Lecturer, College of Medicine, UNILAG Ri peace fellow (2013-2014) 14/09/18

introduction Young people’s health and development are key foundations for a country’s economic development and political stability. Internationally defined as 10-24 years, comprises about a third of the Nigerian population. There are about 47 million adolescents and young people aged 10-24 in Nigeria ~ 1 in 4

National STATISTICS- youth unemployment

Statistics continued Nigeria 114th out of 130 economies in the overall ranking of its Global Human Capital Index for 2017- WEF Index is grossly affected by youth unemployment as they form a critical mass in the country

Stage of life Subjected to a wide range of factors, including Biological Physiological psycho-social factors Also influenced by various contextual factors within the wider environment.

Healthy but risky……………. While generally healthy, young people are prone to risky behaviours that may compromise their health and development. Statistics globally and nationally show, many young people stand at high risk of death from HIV/AIDS, unsafe abortion, severe trauma and mental problems.

Critical formative period Face health- related challenges such as: Drug and Substance abuse- 6.6-39.0% Sexual and Reproductive health problems Endemic and Chronic diseases

are at risk of Peer pressure Experimentation Emotional stress Parental/ Environmental background Self awareness/acceptance Desire for fame Peer pressure Experimentation Parental Background Environment Self awareness Desire for fame

Mental health issues young people face Substance and Drugs Depression Violence Suicide Intentional and Unintentional Injuries

Common soft and hard drugs used Tobacco Marijuana/Cannabis/Indian Hemp Tramadol/Heroine/Codeine Ecstacy Tranquilizers Pain killers Nail polish remover/ Gum/ Petrol Cocaine/Crack etc

Drug use and dependence Dependent Intensive Purposive Experimental

Broader Implications of mental ill-health Health and Safety Issues- Injuries, accidents, suicide, HIV/AIDS Education- low grades, absenteeism, drop out Employment Housing Social – Delinquency, crime, prostitution etc

Broader Implications of mental ill-health (2) Healthy relationships- conflicts, family dysfunction, divorce Civic engagement/Community Involvement Economic Security and wellbeing

Key Messages Investing in Human capital has strong correlation to economic growth Healthy individuals are more productive Our health goals should be situated within the context of economic growth Human Capital Index now tied to country ratings Economies and health are moving very closely together and difficult to separate

Key actions Attention to young people in research and policy Create Economic opportunities for young people Flexibility in programs for young adults Invest in the least advantaged young adults Empower and engage young adults in policies and program Invest in preventive approaches to improve the health of young adults

Key actions We must invest in Human Capital development and improve HDI More involvement of Private sector in Health and Non-health sector Empower young people

Reference- Jamison DT et al Reference- Jamison DT et al. THE LANCET COMMISSIONS| VOLUME 382, ISSUE 9908, P1898-1955, DECEMBER 07, 2013 THE LANCET COMMISSIONS| VOLUME 382, ISSUE 9908, P1898-1955, DECEMBER 07, 2013

A healthy and productive generation of young adults nurtures the next generation and provides the replacement needed to support the retiring generation.

Tips to promote mental wellness-MHA Value yourself Care for your body Surround yourself with good people Give yourself Learn to deal with stress Quiet your mind Set realistic goals Break up the monotony Avoid alcohol and substance abuse Get help when you need it

Thank you rotary- peace fellow 2013/14