The Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria Monday asked the Federal Government to provide psychological first aid to Nigerians evacuated from the Russia-Ukraine war.
The president of the association Prof. James Taiwo Obindo, in a chat with Daily Trust, said the pressure and challenges the evacuees had gone through put them at risk of anxiety disorders and more serious mental health problems.
“So, they’ll need at least psychological first aid and counselling, and a few may need treatment,” he said.
He said the association was ready to support government in providing the necessary intervention for the returnees as well achieving mental wellbeing for Nigerians.
He urged President Muhammadu Buhari to sign the Mental Health Bill.
He lamented the shortage of psychiatrists at correctional facilities in Nigeria.
