The programme brought together Eight young people and members of the parish community for a day of learning, reflection, and honest conversations about mental health. Through presentations, personal testimonies, and interactive discussions, participants were encouraged to recognise that caring for one’s mental well-being is an essential part of living a healthy and faith-filled life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The event opened with a prayer led by Bro. James Elechi, who invited participants to entrust the programme to God’s guidance. In his welcome remarks, he thanked everyone for attending and emphasised the importance of addressing mental health within both the Church and society, where emotional struggles often remain hidden due to fear of stigma or misunderstanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The keynote presentation was delivered by Bro. Anselm Ihediuche, who challenged participants to reflect on how often people conceal emotional pain behind familiar expressions such as, “I am fine” or “All is well.”<\/em> He explained that mental health influences how people think, feel, make decisions, build relationships, and respond to life’s challenges.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Drawing from the realities many young Nigerians face today, including unemployment, financial hardship, insecurity, academic pressure, family responsibilities,<\/em> e uncertainty about the future<\/em>, he highlighted how these challenges can contribute to anxiety, depression, loneliness, emotional exhaustion<\/em>, e other mental health concerns<\/em>. He reminded participants that emotional struggles can affect anyone, regardless of age, social status, or outward appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The presentation also explored common signs of declining mental health, including persistent sadness, mood swings, excessive worrying, fatigue, poor sleep, social withdrawal, difficulty concentrating, <\/em>and loss of interest in daily activities<\/em>. Participants were encouraged to seek help from trusted individuals whenever these symptoms persist rather than suffer in silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Recognising the unique pressures confronting today’s youth, Bro. Anselm discussed the influence of social media, academic expectations, relationship challenges, and financial uncertainty. He cautioned against unhealthy comparisons fuelled by carefully curated online lifestyles and encouraged participants to focus on their individual journeys instead of measuring their lives against others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Grounding the discussion in Christian faith, he reflected on biblical figures such as David, Elijah, and Job, demonstrating that emotional struggles are not signs of weak faith but part of the human experience. He reminded participants that God cares deeply about the emotional well-being of His people and calls them to cast their burdens upon Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Practical strategies for maintaining good mental health were also shared, including open communication, healthy relationships, adequate rest, responsible use of social media, prayer, self-reflection, and seeking professional or trusted support when needed. He concluded by encouraging the Church to continue becoming a safe and welcoming environment where people can openly discuss their struggles without fear of judgment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The programme also featured an engaging interactive session facilitated by Bro. James Elechi. Through a reflective exercise, participants assessed their own emotional well-being while discussing the impact of daily habits on mental health. The session highlighted how excessive mobile phone and social media use can contribute to anxiety, low self-esteem, and emotional distress, especially among young people.<\/em> Participants were encouraged to use digital platforms responsibly and intentionally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A lively discussion followed, during which participants shared personal experiences of resilience, growth, and hope. Bro. Charles spoke about overcoming numerous challenges while building his poultry business, encouraging fellow youths to remain persistent despite setbacks. Bro. Linus Kaseyl reflected on his involvement in advocating for the restoration of the Students’ Union Government during his school years, describing the lasting fulfilment that comes from contributing to positive change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The openness and honesty demonstrated throughout the discussions created an atmosphere of trust, empathy, and mutual encouragement, allowing participants to learn from one another while recognising that no one has to face emotional challenges alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The programme concluded with renewed awareness of the importance of mental health and the need to integrate emotional well-being into everyday life. Participants left better equipped with practical tools, strengthened by faith, and encouraged to build supportive relationships that promote resilience and hope.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In his closing remarks, Youth President Bro. Linus Kaseyl expressed gratitude to the speakers, organisers, and participants for making the programme a success. Following a closing prayer led by Bro. Charles, the event ended at 1:30 p.m., leaving participants inspired to continue caring for the mind God has entrusted to them and to foster communities where compassion, understanding, and hope flourish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Por<\/em>,\u00a0Bro.<\/strong> ELECHI JAMES CHIMDINMA<\/strong>,<\/p>\n\n\n\n AHAPPY Trainer, St. Joseph Mukasa Catholic Church, Gidan Mangoro, Abuja, Nigeria.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Mental Health: Taking Care of the Mind God Gave Us Mental health is increasingly becoming one of the most pressing concerns facing young people today. Recognising the importance of creating safe spaces where young people can openly discuss their emotional well-being, the AJAN AHAPPY Wing of the Catholic Youth Organisation<\/p>\n\n
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