By Florence Amagiya

BENIN CITY — Parents and caregivers have been urged to pay closer attention to changes in their children’s behaviour and emotional well-being, as early detection remains crucial in preventing serious mental health challenges among young people.

The Medical Director of the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Benin City, Dr. Imafidon Osama Agbonile, made the call during a lecture on Mental Well-Being in Children at the Church of God Mission International (CGMI) Faith Arena, Benin City, held as part of activities marking the 2026 Children’s Day celebration.

Speaking before parents, guardians, teachers and church members, Dr. Agbonile said mental health concerns among children are becoming increasingly significant due to growing social, academic and emotional pressures.

According to him, many mental health disorders begin with subtle behavioural changes that are often dismissed as normal childhood development or temporary mood swings. He explained that while occasional emotional changes are expected during childhood, persistent symptoms lasting beyond two or three weeks should be viewed as warning signs that require attention.

Among the indicators parents should look out for, he said, are sudden mood changes, social withdrawal, loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities, sleep disturbances, unexplained physical complaints and unusual behavioural patterns.

“A child who was once cheerful, active and sociable but suddenly becomes withdrawn, irritable or unusually quiet may be experiencing emotional distress,” he said.

The psychiatrist noted that children struggling with mental health challenges often isolate themselves from family members and friends, spending extended periods alone and avoiding social activities they previously enjoyed.

He also identified loss of interest in hobbies, sports and recreational activities — a condition medically referred to as anhedonia — as another important warning sign.

Dr. Agbonile further explained that emotional and psychological difficulties can sometimes manifest through physical symptoms, with affected children frequently complaining of unexplained body discomfort, sensations of heat or unusual feelings despite the absence of any identifiable medical condition.

He added that persistent irritability, frequent temper tantrums, aggression and violent behaviour should not be ignored, as they may point to underlying mental health concerns.

The medical expert also highlighted sleep-related problems, including insomnia, recurrent nightmares and interrupted sleep patterns, as common indicators of emotional distress among children.

Expressing concern over the growing incidence of substance abuse among adolescents, Dr. Agbonile warned that many young people are being introduced to hard drugs through coded language and street names unfamiliar to their parents. He therefore advised caregivers to maintain open communication with their children and stay informed about emerging social trends that may expose them to harmful behaviours.

The Neuropsychiatric Hospital chief also urged parents to pay attention to reports from teachers and school authorities, noting that declining academic performance, absenteeism, reduced classroom participation and sudden behavioural changes may signal deeper emotional or psychological difficulties.

He stressed the need for timely intervention, advising parents not to wait until symptoms worsen before seeking professional help.

“Children need supportive environments where they can express their feelings freely without fear of criticism, punishment or rejection. Mental health challenges are not always visible, and early intervention can make a significant difference in outcomes,” he said.

Dr. Agbonile emphasized that families play a critical role in safeguarding children’s mental well-being through effective communication, emotional support and prompt access to professional care when necessary.

The Children’s Day programme at CGMI Faith Arena provided a platform for raising awareness on issues affecting children beyond physical health and academic performance. Participants were reminded that nurturing children’s emotional and psychological well-being is essential to raising confident, productive and responsible future leaders.

Several attendees described the session as enlightening and timely. Mrs. Grace Ekhator, a parent who attended the programme, said the lecture helped her better understand certain behavioural changes she had previously overlooked in her children.

“I’ve always thought some of these signs were just part of growing up, but today’s presentation has shown me the importance of paying closer attention and seeking help when necessary,” she said.

Another attendee, Mr. Emmanuel Omoregie, commended the church for including mental health awareness as part of the Children’s Day activities. According to him, many parents focus on academics and physical health while neglecting the emotional well-being of their children.

A teacher, Mrs. Ruth Aigbokhan, noted that the lecture reinforced the importance of collaboration between parents, schools and healthcare professionals in identifying children who may be struggling emotionally.

Youth worker Mr. Daniel Osagie expressed concern about the increasing exposure of young people to substance abuse and social pressures, stating that parents must remain actively involved in the lives of their children.

The event also underscored the church’s commitment to holistic child development and highlighted the growing need for increased mental health awareness within homes, schools and communities.

As conversations around children’s mental health continue to gain prominence across Nigeria, stakeholders at the event agreed that attentive parenting, early recognition of warning signs and timely professional intervention remain key to protecting the next generation from long-term mental health challenges.

Participants gave Dr. Agbonile a standing ovation at the conclusion of the lecture, with many remaining behind to ask questions and seek further guidance on supporting children’s emotional and psychological well-being. Several parents expressed appreciation to the Church of God Mission International for providing a platform for such an important discussion during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration.