Ministry Of Health Enlightens Platoons Councilors on Mental Health

The Ministry of Health has educated Platoon councillors on strategies to support corps members in managing their mental health.

This was done at the 2024 Batch B Stream II orientation can-be-employed-to-achieve-growth-within-the-competitive-landscape/ for Lagos State Corps members.

During his lecture, Dr. Adesoji Banji, a representative of the Ministry of Health, shared valuable tips on Psychological First Aid (PFA). The Platoon councillors can utilize these tips to provide support and care to corps members in need.

Dr. Banji stated that the councillors don’t need to be professionals or hold a degree to make a difference.

He explained that simply being aware of what to look out for and how to respond can help individuals. This awareness can reduce their stress symptoms. It can also improve their mental well-being.

The health practitioner equally emphasized the critical role of the councillors as first responders. He noted that they will often be the first point of contact for individuals in need. He highlighted that some officials may be experiencing their first time in camp. This can be a traumatic experience and may require Psychological First Aid (PFA) support.

Dr. Banji outlined the key principles of Psychological First Aid (PFA), stressing that safety is the top priority. He noted that platoon councillors should also remain calm. They should provide comfort to those in need. Then, they should empower individuals to take control of their situation. Finally, they should instill hope for a positive outcome.

Dr. Banji further expressed that corps members are at risk of developing anxiety due to various factors.

These factors include stigma, substance use, smoking, transferred aggression, withdrawal, and obsessive discussions about negative events. He identified these as key symptoms of depression which require the need for awareness and support.