By Esther Onyegbula

The mental health crisis among women, particularly during pregnancy and career transitions, took center stage at the International Women’s Day Conference held on Friday at Hard Rock Cafe Lagos. Organized by the Be An Impact Empowerment Foundation, the event gathered thought leaders, mental health experts, and advocates to address the psychological challenges unique to women.

With the theme “Fearless Women, Strong Minds: Overcoming Unique Mental Health Challenges”, the conference highlighted the urgent need for awareness, support systems, and policy changes to protect women’s mental well-being.

Delivering the welcome address, Mrs. Sandra Ajibola, founder of Be An Impact Empowerment Foundation, underscored the emotional toll of societal expectations on women.

“In a world that constantly demands strength, we must acknowledge the unique mental health struggles women face. Today is not just about celebration but about real conversations that will help us build emotional resilience and create a support system,” she said.

The conference featured a diverse panel of speakers, including Hon. Dr prevail Olayinka, Seun Osigbesan, Opeyemi Lawal Kauthar, Mofolusade Sonaike, Zainab Ajisegbede, Esther Robert and Elizabeth Awosanya, all of whom shared insights on mental wellness, self-care, and the pressures women face.

Psychologist and mental health expert Dr. Prevail Olayinka Ahmed warned that untreated mental health conditions during pregnancy can lead to severe consequences, including postpartum depression and suicide.

“The mental load women carry, from professional responsibilities to family expectations, requires conscious management. Seeking help is not a weakness; it’s a necessity,” she advised.

Expanding on this, Hon. Ahmed highlighted the mental challenges women face during uncertain phases in life, which she described as “waiting seasons”—periods of stagnation, self-doubt, and delayed opportunities.

“The waiting stage is the toughest phase in anyone’s life. It is a time when everything seems to stand still, and efforts go unnoticed,” she stated.

Ahmed emphasized that understanding one’s identity and purpose is crucial to overcoming mental and emotional struggles. She urged women to stay grounded in their faith and surround themselves with positive influences.

“Your relationships are crucial. The people around you can either pull you down or push you forward. It’s essential to nurture connections that contribute to your growth,” she advised.

She also called on policymakers, religious institutions, and mental health organizations to provide structured support for women facing emotional and psychological distress.

“We need more programs, counseling services, and community support groups to help women navigate these difficult seasons. Emotional resilience is not just an individual responsibility; it is a societal one,” Ahmed asserted.

During a panel session, Opeyemi Lawal Kauthar, founder of Lok Natal Care, emphasized the need for better mental health support for pregnant women, stating that many suffer in silence due to a lack of awareness and support systems.

“Women go through significant mental health challenges during pregnancy. The way they are perceived changes, and they must balance their well-being with that of their child,” Kauthar stated.

Citing the recent suicide of a 26-year-old woman suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum, a severe pregnancy condition characterized by constant nausea, vomiting, and weight loss, Kauthar stressed the need for psychological care for expectant mothers. While prenatal physical care is emphasized, mental health often goes unaddressed, leaving many women vulnerable.

The Struggles of Married Women in Nollywood
Nollywood actress Seun Osigbesan shared insights into the mental toll of being a married woman in the film industry, revealing how married actresses are often sidelined due to assumptions about their availability.

“Unmarried actresses are mostly preferred over married ones. Once you’re married, producers assume you’re unavailable or not as committed,” Osigbesan said.

She recounted the career struggles of a fellow actress who was once in high demand but faced a decline in opportunities after marriage and motherhood, leading to public scrutiny and mental health struggles.

“Women don’t support women enough. Married actresses often find themselves having to prove their relevance in an industry that favors single women,” she added, calling for more inclusivity and support for women in Nollywood.

In her presentation, physical therapist, entrepreneur, and founder of Nisbols Naturals LLC, Elizabeth Awosanya, urged women to prioritize self-care as a fundamental aspect of mental well-being.

Speaking passionately about relaxation, Awosanya encouraged women to embrace simple pleasures, such as watching a movie, drinking a glass of wine, or walking on the beach.

“Self-care doesn’t have to be expensive. Something as simple as grounding, walking barefoot on the sand, can help absorb the earth’s natural energy and relieve stress,” she said.

Awosanya also shared her journey into entrepreneurship, revealing how she founded her natural skincare brand out of necessity when her child suffered from severe eczema.

“Nature has something that can help. I started experimenting with shea butter, olive oil, and eucalyptus oil, and that’s how my business was born,” she recalled, highlighting the therapeutic benefits of natural remedies and holistic wellness.

Speakers at the conference emphasized the need for policy reforms and community-based interventions, recommending:

Mandatory mental health screenings during prenatal visits.
Accessible and affordable therapy sessions for women.
Public awareness campaigns to combat mental health stigma.
Workplace policies supporting women’s mental well-being.
Community-based support networks to provide emotional assistance.
Closing the event, Mrs. Ajibola urged attendees to continue the conversation beyond the conference and become advocates for mental health awareness in their communities.

“Self-care is not selfish; it is essential. Today is the beginning of a movement to create a world where every woman can thrive, mentally and emotionally,” she said.

As the conference ended, attendees left with a renewed commitment to breaking mental health stigmas, fostering supportive communities, and prioritizing emotional well-being.