On Saturday, March 8, 2025, women worldwide will celebrate International Women's Day (IWD) under the theme #AccelerateAction. This theme underscores the urgent need for decisive steps to achieve gender equality, a key component of Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5) within the global goals framework. It highlights the slow progress in empowering women and girls globally and calls for accelerated efforts to address this issue.

The #AccelerateAction theme serves as a wake-up call, recognizing that insufficient progress has been made toward realizing gender equality as outlined in SDG 5. This may be attributed to the recurring pattern of superficial commitments made during annual celebrations, often unaccompanied by sustained follow-through. Additionally, awareness of gender equality has largely remained theoretical, a realization that this year's theme seeks to address by advocating for tangible action. While numerous factors contribute to this stagnation, one fundamental truth stands out: achieving gender equality requires collective effort in shaping public awareness, advocacy, and policies that prioritize women's rights, mental health, and holistic well-being.

The Call:

The call to accelerate action also involves reevaluating existing global frameworks—such as charters, laws, and policies—designed to promote gender equality. Despite these efforts, setbacks persist, and inequalities remain entrenched. SDG 10, which focuses on reducing inequalities, has yet to gain sufficient momentum, further necessitating this year's push for accelerated action. By fostering public awareness, advocacy, and policy alignment, we can unite stakeholders and unlock the immense potential of women, driving positive change for sustainable development. This approach will also help dismantle systemic barriers and biases that women encounter across personal, professional, traditional, religious, and political spheres, prompting urgent solutions to these challenges.

The Tripod:

To achieve lasting gender equality, we must address what I term the "tripod" of political, religious, and cultural frameworks. Moving beyond lip service, these areas require continuous attention to effect meaningful change. Women, who constitute a significant portion of the global population and possess vast potential, are often underrepresented or unheard. Yet, in some nations, women have played transformative roles in socioeconomic and political spheres, contributing to societal emancipation.

Timely:

This year's theme is both timely and deliberate—a clarion call to break down barriers to gender equality and reduce inequalities worldwide. By focusing on women's potential and supporting them in unlocking it, we can counter the mental and emotional toll of systemic challenges, enabling them to contribute more fully to sustainable development. Effective partnerships are essential to this process, shaping the mechanisms needed to accelerate progress. #AccelerateAction is a collective responsibility, one that requires everyone to play a role in hastening the pace of change.

Happy International Women's Day 2025 to all women! Together, we can achieve remarkable strides for sustainable development.

The brain is a vital organ, essential to human existence, making brain health a critical focus. To understand this topic, consider the following:

Brain Functions:

The brain is the control center of the human body, managing a vast array of functions through its complex network of neurons. Here's a concise breakdown of its key roles:

• Thoughts and Cognition: The brain enables reasoning, problem-solving, decision-making, and imagination, primarily through the prefrontal cortex.

• Memory: It stores and retrieves information, with the hippocampus playing a central role in short-term and long-term memory formation.

• Emotions: The amygdala processes emotions like fear, joy, and anger, while the limbic system regulates emotional responses.

• Sensory Processing: The brain interprets input from the senses—vision (occipital lobe), hearing (temporal lobe), touch (parietal lobe), taste, and smell—integrating them for perception.

• Motor Skills: The motor cortex and cerebellum coordinate voluntary movements (e.g., walking) and balance.

• Autonomic Functions: The brainstem controls involuntary actions like breathing, heart rate, and temperature regulation.

• Hunger and Thirst: The hypothalamus monitors and triggers responses to maintain energy and hydration levels.

• Communication: The brain, via areas like Broca’s and Wernicke’s, governs speech production and language comprehension.

• Behavior and Personality: Frontal lobes influence social behavior, impulse control, and individual traits.

In essence, the brain orchestrates every process that keeps us alive, aware, and interactive with the world, adapting constantly to internal and external demands.

Summary: Neurologists and the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) describe the brain as a complex, fascinating organ that controls thoughts, memory, emotions, motor skills, senses, bodily functions, and regulates all processes, including movement, communication, decision-making, and how we interpret our surroundings, thoughts, behaviors, and feelings.

Brain health, disorders, and mental well-being:

Brain health is vital for overall well-being. The World Health Organization defines it as optimal brain functioning in cognitive, sensory, social-emotional, behavioral, and motor domains, enabling a person to reach their full potential throughout life.

Your brain defines you; without it, you’re nothing. Brain diseases like tumors, strokes, and encephalitis harm nerves, brain function, cognition, and can cause vision loss or paralysis. Oxidative stress from smoking, alcohol, pollution, poor diet, overthinking, anxiety, radiation, certain meds, or intense exercise damages neurons, risking cognitive decline, memory loss, and diseases like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s.

Caring for our brain health:

Caring for our brain involves intentional habits to support its health and function. Here’s a concise guide:

• Healthy Diet: Eat nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and omega-3s (e.g., fish) to nourish brain cells.

• Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, guided by professionals, to boost blood flow, oxygen, and neuron growth.

• Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep nightly to aid memory consolidation and cellular repair.

• Mental Stimulation: Read, puzzle, journal, or learn new skills to keep cognition sharp.

• Social Connection: Stay active in meaningful relationships and community groups to enhance emotional well-being.

• Stress Management: Practice mindfulness, meditation, or relaxation to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.

• Hydration: Drink water consistently to support brain function.

• Avoid Harm: Limit alcohol, quit smoking, and avoid pollutants or risky behaviors that damage neurons.

These steps strengthen the brain’s natural protections, boosting resilience and overall well-being.

In Summary: Caring for brain health boosts cognitive function, resilience, and social, psychological, emotional, and spiritual well-being, enabling a happier, stress-resilient, and fulfilling life. This requires intentional effort: eating a healthy diet, exercising with guidance, staying socially active, joining meaningful groups, maintaining a routine, and getting quality sleep. Prioritize brain health by avoiding risky lifestyles and embracing activities like reading, journaling, singing, drawing, dancing, staying hydrated, and managing time well—since the brain drives assessment, decisions, judgment, and execution of plans, distinguishing good from bad.

Brain health and mental well-being:

Mental health and brain health are deeply interconnected, like two sides of a coin. Per the World Health Organization, brain health is the optimal functioning of cognitive, sensory, social-emotional, behavioral, and motor domains, enabling full potential across life, controlling movement, communication, thought, behavior, judgment, and emotions. Mental health, meanwhile, is a state of well-being allowing one to cope with stress, realize abilities, learn, work, and contribute to society. Together, they underpin decision-making, relationships, and shaping our world, reflecting a holistic blend of physical, social, emotional, mental, and spiritual elements. Prioritizing mental health supports stable brain health, enhancing cognitive, affective, and psychomotor abilities for sustainable well-being.

We at Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation and Coli Mental Health Academy extend our heartfelt congratulations to our International Mental Health Ambassador, Coach Vorleamesi Kofi, on his successful completion of the CAF Licence C course at the Ghana Football School. We commend him on this remarkable achievement, recognizing that such a milestone is a testament to his dedication and perseverance.

The relationship between values and mental health is a fascinating and complex one. Personal values—those core beliefs and principles that guide our decisions and behaviors—can significantly influence our mental health. Let’s break it down.

On one hand, living in alignment with your values can be a powerful boost to mental health. When your actions and life choices reflect what you truly care about—whether it’s honesty, family, creativity, or something else—you’re more likely to feel a sense of purpose, satisfaction, and inner peace. Research backs this up: studies in positive psychology suggest that people who pursue goals tied to their intrinsic values (like personal growth or connection) tend to report higher levels of happiness and lower stress compared to those chasing extrinsic stuff like wealth or status for its own sake. When we are faced with inner conflict for instance between telling a lie to save ourselves from undesired consequences or when what we really want differs from what our community expects from us, choosing alignment with our values helps us to make safe choices for ourselves and protect our self esteem which is an important part of our mental health.

Values play an important role in your peace of mind and therefore in your mental health but it’s not all rosy. If there’s a disconnect between your values and your reality—like if you value freedom but feel trapped in a soul-crushing job—it can lead to frustration, anxiety, or even depression. This misalignment creates what psychologists call "cognitive dissonance," a mental tension that can wear you down over time. Similarly, if your values clash with societal norms or the people around you, that conflict can pile on stress or feelings of isolation.

Values also shape how we cope with life’s curveballs. For example, if you value resilience or community, you might lean on those strengths to navigate tough times, buffering against mental health struggles. On the flip side, rigid or perfectionistic values—like believing you must always succeed—can make you more vulnerable to burnout or self-criticism when things go sideways.

There’s also a two-way street here: mental health can influence how clearly you see or prioritize your values. Depression or anxiety might cloud your ability to connect with what matters to you, leaving you feeling aimless or detached.

In short, values act like a compass for mental well-being—when they guide you true, they can ground and uplift you, but when they’re ignored or imposed, they can throw you off course.

Where do our values come from?

Values are primarily based on a person's beliefs, attitudes, and experiences, which are often shaped by their upbringing, culture, family, and personal encounters, essentially reflecting what a person considers important in life and guides their decision-making process; they are not solely based on facts but rather on what someone deems valuable and meaningful. They stem from the core beliefs and principles that individuals hold about right and wrong, which can be influenced by various factors like family, community, and religion. 

While values may be shared across cultures, their specific meaning and application can vary based on an individual's unique experiences and perspective.

Conclusion:

So our values can help direct our choices and behavior in helpful ways.

What do you think—do you see your own values playing a role in how you feel day-to-day?

This guide by Cope and Live Foundation provides a solid foundation for understanding anxiety, its effects, and effective management techniques

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a natural and essential part of the human experience, acting as the body’s response to stress or perceived danger. It is a common emotional experience that everyone encounters at some point in life, serving as a protective mechanism that helps us respond to challenging situations. While occasional anxiety can be beneficial—helping individuals stay alert and focused—persistent or excessive anxiety can interfere with daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. Understanding anxiety, its causes, symptoms, and management strategies is crucial in today’s fast-paced world, where stress levels continue to rise. By gaining deeper insights into anxiety and adopting effective coping mechanisms, individuals can improve their mental health, enhance resilience, and lead more balanced and fulfilling lives.

Types of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders encompass a range of conditions, each with its own unique features and diagnostic criteria. The most common types include:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD):

Characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life, such as work, health, and relationships. Symptoms may include; restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.

• Panic Disorder:

Involves recurrent, unexpected panic attacks—intense surges of fear or discomfort that peak within minutes. Some of the symptoms include: Heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, feelings of impending doom, and a fear of losing control or “going crazy.”

• Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia):

Marked by extreme fear of social situations, leading to avoidance behaviors and significant distress. You may experience an intense fear of being judged or embarrassed in social settings, sweating, trembling, blushing, and difficulty speaking.

• Specific Phobias:

This type of Anxiety disorder involves intense fear of specific objects or situations (e.g., heights, spiders, flying). You may be experiencing an immediate and intense fear upon exposure to the trigger, leading to avoidance behavior.

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD):

This is characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). You may experience symptoms like excessive cleaning, hoarding, or checking behaviors to alleviate anxiety associated with obsessions.

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):

This develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, often accompanied by severe anxiety and flashbacks. Symptoms may include re-experiencing the trauma, avoidance of reminders, negative changes in mood, and hyperarousal.

Causes of Anxiety

The causes of anxiety are multifaceted and often involve a combination of genetic, environmental, psychological, and neurological factors.

• Genetic Factors

Family history of anxiety disorders can increase the risk of developing similar conditions. Certain genes linked to neurotransmitter function may also play a role.

• Environmental Factors

Early life experiences, such as trauma, abuse, or neglect, contribute significantly to the development of anxiety disorders. Stressful events, such as the death of a loved one or unemployment, can also trigger anxiety.

• Psychological Factors

Cognitive patterns such as negative thinking, perfectionism, and low self-esteem can contribute to heightened anxiety levels.

• Neurobiological Factors

Neurotransmitter imbalances, particularly involving serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, may influence the development of anxiety disorders. Dysregulation of brain regions responsible for fear response (e.g., amygdala) may also be involved.

Symptoms of Anxiety

Symptoms of anxiety can vary widely among individuals and can be categorized into physical, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms:

Physical Symptoms

• Rapid heartbeat

• Shortness of breath

• Muscle tension

• Sweating

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, diarrhea)

Emotional Symptoms

• Persistent feelings of worry or dread

• Irritability

• Feelings of being overwhelmed

• Fatigue

Cognitive Symptoms

• Difficulty concentrating or focusing

• Constant apprehension about the future

• Indecisiveness

Behavioral Symptoms

• Avoidance of situations that trigger anxiety

• Changes in sleeping or eating patterns

• Withdrawal from social activities

Prevention of Anxiety

While not all anxiety can be prevented, certain strategies may help reduce the risk of developing anxiety disorders:

1. Stress Management

Engage in stress-reducing activities, such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises.

2. Healthy Lifestyle

Maintain a well-balanced diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep to promote overall mental wellness.

3. Build Supportive Relationships

Cultivating strong, supportive relationships can provide a buffer against stress and anxiety.

4. Avoid Substance Use

Eliminating alcohol, caffeine, and recreational drug use can help manage anxiety symptoms.

5. Early Intervention

Seeking help from a mental health professional at early signs of anxiety can prevent the escalation of symptoms.

Treatment and Management of Anxiety

Effective treatment for anxiety disorders often involves a combination of therapy, medication, and self-help strategies:

• Psychotherapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with anxiety. CBT has been proven effective for various anxiety disorders.

Exposure Therapy: Gradual and controlled exposure to the source of fear to desensitize the individual and reduce avoidance behavior.

• Medication:

Antidepressants: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly prescribed.

Anxiolytics: Benzodiazepines may be prescribed for short-term relief but have the potential for dependency and should be used cautiously.

Beta-Blockers: Often used to manage physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heart rate.

• Self-Help Strategies:

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practice mindfulness, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation to alleviate symptoms.

Routine Exercise: Regular physical activity can significantly reduce anxiety levels and improve mood.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol, maintaining a balanced diet, and ensuring sufficient sleep can improve overall mental health.

Support Groups: Joining a support group can provide a sense of community and understanding, allowing individuals to share experiences and coping strategies.

Prayer and Meditation: Connecting with God through Praying and meditating on the words of The Holy scriptures has been known to provide a calmness in the midst of ever present challenges.

Conclusion

Anxiety is a complex and multifaceted condition that, while common, can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Understanding the various types, causes, and symptoms of anxiety is crucial for effective prevention, treatment, and management. Through a combination of therapeutic interventions, medication, lifestyle adjustments, and social support, individuals can learn to manage their anxiety and lead fulfilling lives. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, seeking professional help is a vital step toward recovery, therefore we urge you to reach out to our numerous services available close to you. Visit our website for more details on our free services.

Self-hate is insidious and invisible. Our mental well-being is often shaped by our emotional state. Negative emotions can trigger self-hate, a profoundly distressing experience characterized by intense emotional disdain, disgust, and resentment and feelings of worthlessness directed towards oneself. It can manifest as a persistent negative inner voice, causing feelings of worthlessness, inadequacy, and self-punishment, which significantly affect relationships, daily life and overall well-being. For some people, Self-hate is a decision that they made consciously or otherwise after believing negative talk about themselves by other people.

Causes of Self-Hate

Self-hate is a complex issue that does not develop abruptly. It often has its roots in early life experiences, including childhood abuse and neglect, social media, trauma, harsh criticism, and strained interactions with peers. These factors can lead to the internalization of feelings of shame, guilt, inadequacy, and worthlessness.

In addition, societal pressure, a lack of understanding of whose you are, unrealistic standards, perfectionism, unhealthy comparisons, traumatic experiences, and mental health disorders can contribute to self-hate.

Effects of Self-Hate on Mental Health

Self-hate can have a profound and detrimental impact on mental well-being. Someone who hates themselves is incapable of loving you. Prolonged self-hate can lead to the development of anxiety, depression and poor mental health which can impair productivity and negatively affect interpersonal relationships. In severe cases, it can lead to suicidal ideation. It can also lead people to engage in risky and dangerous living and in activities that are harmful to themselves such as substance and drug abuse, prostitution, involvement with OCG’s, all sorts of crime and criminality, etc.

Coping Strategies to Overcome Self-Hate

It is crucial to acknowledge and actively address self-hate, employing effective strategies for healing. Here are some below:

1. Practice Positive Self-Talk: Choose not to talk yourself down anymore. A negative mindset is a self-destructive trait. Conversely, positive affirmations are not about fabricating falsehoods. Instead, they are about acknowledging and affirming the truth. Self-deception can be more detrimental than beneficial.

When you encounter a harsh inner voice criticizing you and negative thoughts attempting to dominate your mind, counter them. For instance, if you think, “I am very stupid,” pause and reflect on instances when you have demonstrated wisdom. Affirm, “I am wise.” Although this may initially feel uncomfortable, with consistent practice, your mindset will gradually shift towards positivity. You are fearfully and wonderfully made.

2. Practice Kindness: It is often said that everyone we meet is moving around with unseen burdens. So let us be kind to one another in our words and actions.

3. Consider Journaling: Writing serves as a therapeutic tool to clarify thoughts and dispel negative emotions. Dedicate at least five minutes daily to introspection, reflecting on your experiences. Document the events that evoked self-hate, your emotional responses, and your subsequent actions. This practice can aid in identifying recurring patterns and fostering more constructive coping mechanisms.

4. Cultivate Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with the same level of kindness and understanding you would offer a close friend. Self-compassion entails refraining from excessive self-criticism and recognizing that making errors is an inherent aspect of being human. It does not imply disregarding mistakes but rather approaching them with a constructive and forgiving mindset. We are all work-in-progress.

5. Prioritize Self-Care: Engaging in activities that nurture your physical and emotional well-being can be an effective strategy in combating self-hate. Consider incorporating exercises, consuming wholesome cuisine, ensuring adequate sleep, spending time in solitude, or engaging in any other practices that promote rejuvenation and positivity.

6. Therapy can help: Seek professional help from a therapist to overcome self-hate. Therapy can provide a structured path to healing and personal growth, enabling you to develop a more positive and fulfilling self-image.

7. Avoid negative energy: Remove yourself from people and situations that talk you down and associate with people who encourage and lift up your spirit.

If you are experiencing self-hate, please consider reaching out to us for therapy and guidance at www.copandlive.foundation.

In an increasingly decadent society, the innocence of our young ones is continually being violated. We should always encourage our children to speak up about any form of sexual abuse, as a sexually abused child becomes a scarred adult regardless of their future profession. This includes roles such as parent, teacher, farmer, business mogul, doctor, politician, law enforcement agent, priest, pilot, lawyer, or any other occupation.

It is imperative to acknowledge the rising incidence of sexual harassment and abuse against boys by both males and females who may be relatives, authority figures, helps, school teachers and so on. A significant concern arises from the tendency to relax our protective measures around our boys, based on the erroneous belief that they are less vulnerable than girls especially when they are around older females or relatives(male or female).

This emotional distress can cause strained relationships, particularly with their peers, and can have lasting effects on a child’s development. Childhood trauma, whether mild or severe, can manifest in adulthood as depression, affecting an individual’s mental well-being.

Consequently, these individuals become more susceptible to organized criminal groups, cults, addictions, substance abuse, and numerous psychological difficulties that adversely affect them and society as a whole.

This serves as a stark reminder to all relevant stakeholders, including parents, guardians, educators, teachers, community leaders, and others, to diligently observe, listen attentively, provide education, and take proactive measures to safeguard our children from any form of abuse, particularly sexual abuse.

This is  a wake-up call to all parents, guardians, educators, teachers, community leaders, and other relevant stakeholders to observe, listen to, educate, and protect our children from any form of abuse, especially sexual abuse.

What is child sexual abuse?

Child sexual abuse encompasses a spectrum of unlawful sexual acts, including:

• The possession of images depicting child sexual abuse

• The compulsion of a child to remove their clothing or engage in masturbatory acts

• Engaging in any form of sexual activity in the presence of a child, including the viewing of pornography

• The acquisition, downloading, viewing, or distribution of sexual images depicting children

• Encouraging a child to perform sexual acts in the presence of a webcam

• Failing to implement measures to safeguard a child from witnessing sexual activity or images

• Inappropriate sexual contact with a child, regardless of whether they are clothed or not

• Penetrative sexual acts

Perpetrators of child sexual abuse?

Most children who have experienced sexual abuse were abused by someone they knew, including family members, friends, family friends, teachers, or sports coaches. Children can also be sexually abused online by someone they know. The abuse can be a single, isolated incident, or the perpetrator can establish a relationship with the child (Grooming).

People who sexually abuse children can be adult, adolescent or a child themselves.

Most abusers are male, but females do abuse children too.

Around a third of child sexual abuse is carried out by other, usually older, children or young people.

9 out of 10 children know or are related to their abuser. Child sexual abuse frequently occurs within the confines of the child’s residence or the abuser’s home.

However, it is also possible for sexual abuse to transpire outside the home, such as in leisure and sports clubs.

Notice when an abuser is providing a child with preferential treatment, offering them gifts, treats, and outings. They may also seek out opportunities to be alone with the child.

Grooming

Grooming refers to the preparatory stage of child sexual abuse, encompassing a diverse range of behaviors and/or verbal or written communications directed at children or young individuals, or significant adults, with the intention of facilitating sexual contact and preventing disclosure. Online grooming can manifest through various platforms, including mobile devices and interactive applications such as chat and instant messaging services, social media platforms, and gaming environments. Perpetrators often leverage these platforms as entry points to initiate contact with children.

It is noteworthy that the perpetrator may also groom the child’s parents, caregivers, and other significant adults, including organizations. This can pose challenges for parents and caregivers in identifying potential grooming behavior, as grooming actions often resemble genuine expressions of care and concern.

Grooming can lead to a child developing a distorted perception of their relationship with the perpetrator, causing confusion about the nature of the bond. This can result in internalizing the abuse as their own fault, resulting in a sense of responsibility for any harm experienced and fear of being blamed, punished, or not believed. Additionally, children may fear being separated from their family or home if they speak out against the abuse. Furthermore, they may believe that disclosing the abuse will cause harm to someone or something they love and care for, such as family members or pets.

Children more vulnerable to sexual abuse?

1. Disabled children are particularly susceptible to sexual abuse, particularly if they struggle with speech or language impairments. This was one of the reasons why Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation chose the Special Education Centre at Ogbete, (School for the hearing and speech impaired), to launch our 2025 Q1 intervention themed Child and Adolescent Mental Health. At this school, we interface with these children and provide them avenues to downplay abuse, increase resilience and improve their mental wellbeing and mental health.

2. Children who are experiencing neglect or other forms of abuse are also at increased risk.

3. Children who have previously experienced abuse are more vulnerable to sexual assault.

4. Children who reside in families where there is child neglect are particularly at risk.

5. Children can also be at risk when using the internet. Social media, chat rooms, and web forums are all utilized by child sex abusers to groom potential victims.

Report child sexual abuse

It is imperative to address suspected child sexual abuse promptly. Call us immediately you suspect abuse.

If you are a healthcare professional and suspect that a child in your care is experiencing or at risk of abuse, you can contact us, the police or other law enforcement agencies anonymously.

If you are concerned about your own thoughts or behavior towards children or if you are a child and someone is sexually abusing you, you can seek help and advice by calling us immediately on +234 814 831 8965. Or email us: info@copeandlive.foundation

Signs that a child is being sexually abused?

Children frequently refrain from disclosing instances of sexual abuse due to the misconception that it is their fault or the abuser’s manipulation of them into believing it is normal or a “special secret.”

Additionally, children may be subjected to bribes or threats by their abuser, or they may be told that their concerns will not be taken seriously.

Furthermore, a child who is being sexually abused may harbor feelings of care for their abuser and be concerned about the potential consequences for their abuser.

Here are some indicators that may suggest the presence of sexual abuse:

Behavioral Signs

• Acting Younger or Reverting to Childlike Behavior.

• Sudden changes in behavior, such as aggression, withdrawal, clinginess, sleep disturbances, nightmares, or bedwetting.

• Fear of being alone with a specific person.

• Unexplained fears of certain places or individuals (e.g., all people with a particular physical characteristic).

• Excessive online time, texting, or gaming.

• Fear of physical touch.

• Secrecy about online activities or conversations.

• Academic difficulties, including concentration problems and declining grades, as a result of abuse. Refusal to attend school.

• Changes in schoolwork quality or grades.

• Substance abuse or substance misuse.

• Sexually inappropriate behavior, including verbal or physical sexual acts.

• Sexualized play or behavior with other children.

• Inappropriate knowledge of sex for their age.

• Lack of peer relationships.

• Delinquent behavior.

• Seeming distant, upset, or angry after using the internet or texting.

• Avoiding the abuser due to dislike or fear.

• Self-mutilation or careless behaviors resulting in self-harm. Self-harm or suicidal attempts.

• Excessive play with private body parts.

• Persistent sexual play with friends, toys, or pets.

• Frequent drawings with sexual content.

• Unusual, persistent, or developmentally inappropriate questions about human sexuality.

• Subtle hints or clues that the abuse is occurring without explicit disclosure.

Physical Signs

• Consuming more or less than the customary amount of food.

• The child may develop health problems, including genital and anal discomfort, or sexually transmitted infections.

• Pain, itching, bleeding, bruising, or unusual discharge from the genital area or anus.

• Having trouble sleeping

• Soiling or wetting clothes, or bedwetting (or an increase, if it happens already)

• Stomachaches

• Bed-wetting

• Underwear stained with blood or other discharge

• Problems walking or sitting

If your child shows any of the physical signs listed above, take him or her to a doctor right away.

Emotional Signs

• Severe anxiety, including nightmares or excessive clinginess.

• Depression, characterized by symptoms such as withdrawal, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation or attempts, and frequent crying.

• Extreme anger, manifesting in forms such as tantrums, aggression, or heightened irritability.

Talk to your doctor or the counselor at your child’s school if your child shows any of these emotional signs or contact us immediately.

Effects of Sexual Abuse on a Child

Sexual abuse can inflict severe and enduring physical and emotional harm upon children, both in the immediate and long-term contexts.

In the short term, victims of sexual abuse may experience a range of health complications, including sexually transmitted infections, physical injuries, and unwanted pregnancies.

In the long term, individuals who have endured sexual abuse are at a significantly elevated risk of developing mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They are also more prone to engaging in self-harmful behaviors, involvement in violent or criminal activities, substance misuse (including alcohol and drugs), and premature death by suicide as young adults. Others include:

• Sexual difficulties

• Inability to form lasting relationships

• Identity difficulties

• Relationship problems

• Parenting difficulties

Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic technique that utilizes hypnosis to induce a state of focused attention and heightened suggestibility. It has been used for centuries to address various mental health concerns. This paper explores the history of hypnotherapy, its evolution as a therapeutic tool, and its current applications in mental health treatment. Additionally, it examines the challenges and controversies surrounding hypnotherapy.

1. Introduction

Hypnotherapy has long been a subject of fascination and skepticism in the field of mental health. While its origins can be traced back to ancient practices, modern hypnotherapy has evolved into a structured therapeutic approach used to treat conditions such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and phobias. Despite its potential benefits, hypnotherapy remains a controversial and often misunderstood practice.

2. Historical Overview of Hypnotherapy

The use of hypnosis for healing dates back to ancient civilizations, where trance-like states were induced during religious rituals and healing ceremonies. However, the formal development of hypnotherapy began in the 18th century with the work of Franz Anton Mesmer , who introduced the concept of "animal magnetism." Although Mesmer's theories were later discredited, his work laid the foundation for the scientific study of hypnosis.

In the 19th century, James Braid , a Scottish surgeon, coined the term "hypnosis" and emphasized its psychological rather than magnetic origins. Braid's work marked the beginning of hypnotherapy as a recognized therapeutic practice. Sigmund Freud also, unsuccessfully, experimented with hypnosis in the early stages of his career.

The 20th century saw the rise of hypnotherapy as a tool for treating trauma, particularly during World War I and II, when it was used to address "shell shock" (now known as PTSD). Milton H. Erickson, a prominent psychiatrist, and Dave Elman further advanced the field by developing innovative techniques that emphasized individualized approaches, subconscious states and the power of suggestion.

3. Hypnotherapy in Contemporary Mental Health

Today, hypnotherapy is used to address a wide range of mental health conditions. It is often employed as an adjunct to other therapeutic modalities. Some of the key applications of hypnotherapy in mental health include:

1. Anxiety and Panic Attack.

2. Depression.

3. PTSD and Trauma

4. Phobias and Fears.

5. Addiction and Habit Control.

6. Stress Management

Despite its potential, hypnotherapy is not universally accepted within the mental health community. Clark Hull, a prominent Hypnotherapist in the early 1900s, observed that magic and superstition is still erroneously being associated to hypnosis and hypnotherapy.

4. Current Issues and Challenges in Hypnotherapy

While hypnotherapy has gained recognition as a valuable therapeutic tool, it faces several challenges that hinder its widespread adoption:

- Scientific Validation.

- Ethical Concerns.

- Integration into Mainstream Care.

- Public Misconceptions and stigma.

- Regulation and standardized Training.

5. Future Directions

To address these challenges, the field of hypnotherapy must focus on:

- Conducting high-quality, randomized controlled trials.

- Develop standardized training programs and certification processes.

- Increase collaboration between hypnotherapists and mainstream mental health professionals.

- Educate the public and healthcare providers about the potential benefits and limitations of hypnotherapy.

6. Conclusion

Hypnotherapy has a rich history and holds promise as a great and efficient therapeutic tool for addressing mental health concerns. However, its future depends on overcoming current public bias and establishment of scientific validation, ethics, and integration into mainstream care system.Today hypnotherapy continues to tremendously contribute to the broader field of mental health treatment.

Understanding one’s personality entails gaining insight into one’s true self, strengths, weaknesses, and available opportunities. Unfortunately, some individuals mistakenly equate their personality with their positions, titles, and the numerous accolades they may possess. While these societal positions, titles, and accolades can be part of one’s identity, they should not be mistaken for one’s inherent personality.

Personality

Personality refers to the unique combination of traits and behaviors that distinguish each individual. It encompasses an individual’s thought processes, emotional responses, and actions, as well as their interactions with the external environment.

An individual’s personality traits are shaped by their interests, values, and abilities. These traits influence their thought processes, emotions, and behaviors over an extended period and across various situations.

Self-Awareness: Key to Understanding Your Personality

Many individuals continue to grapple with understanding their personalities, likely due to a lack of self-awareness and accurate self-assessment of their capabilities. Self-awareness serves as a pivotal gateway to personal growth and mental well-being. It enables individuals to transcend their job titles and societal labels, allowing them to truly comprehend their authentic selves. By introspecting and reflecting on their identity beyond their professional roles, individuals can gain a clear understanding of their true selves, their characteristics, and their emotional responses. This empowers them to effectively manage their feelings and behaviors, leading to personal fulfillment and a more balanced life.

Your personality differs from your societal status and perceived achievements. Self-awareness enables you to recognize your true self and break free from the constraints of titles, positions, and societal expectations that shape our identity. By understanding our personality, we can establish healthy boundaries and lead fulfilling lives, prioritizing our holistic well-being.

Bullying, whether perpetrated or experienced, poses substantial risks to students’ emotional, social, and academic development within primary and secondary educational institutions. Here’s an overview:

Consequences of Engaging in Bullying Behavior

1. Development of Aggressive Behavior:

Bullying frequently normalizes aggressive behavior, which can subsequently manifest as criminal tendencies and anti-social behavior in adulthood.

2. Poor Relationships:

Their intimidating behavior may alienate them from peers, teachers, and even family members, resulting in social isolation.

3. Academic Decline:

Bullying can lead to a decline in academic performance. This decline may be attributed to disciplinary actions or a lack of interest in schoolwork.

4. Impaired Empathy Development:

Bullying impedes the development of empathy, rendering bullies incapable of comprehending or empathizing with the emotions of others.

5. Legal and Disciplinary Consequences:

In severe instances, bullying can result in suspension, expulsion, or legal action, which may adversely affect their future prospects.

Perils of Being a Victim of Bullying

1. Low Self-Esteem and Confidence:

Victims frequently experience a sense of inadequacy and lack of self-assurance, which can adversely impact their academic performance and future aspirations.

2. Mental Health Challenges:

Bullying is associated with a heightened risk of developing anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.

3. Physical Health Consequences:

Bullying-related stress can manifest in various physical ailments, including headaches, stomachaches, and other stress-related illnesses.

4. Social Withdrawal:

Victims may withdraw from social interactions, resulting in feelings of loneliness and hindering the development of meaningful connections.

5. Academic Impact:

The apprehension of encountering bullies can result in absenteeism, diminished concentration, and subpar academic performance.

Addressing the Issue

• Educators and Educational Institutions should register for our Anti-Bulling Workshop at www.coliacademy.org or send us an email: info@coliacademy.org. This extensive workshop will help them to establish comprehensive anti-bullying policies and foster an environment conducive to open and transparent communication.

• Parents are obligated to provide support and foster empathy in their children.

• It is imperative that peers actively oppose bullying behavior and promptly report any instances of such conduct.

• Victims require a secure environment to disclose their experiences and access counseling services as required.

• Cultivating a culture of kindness and understanding within educational institutions is paramount in effectively preventing bullying and mitigating its detrimental consequences.

The Writer Kingsley Odoemenem is the Focal Person (Coordinator) at Abuja

The following resources shed more light on this issue. Read more:

• https://www.copeandlive.foundation/blog/persistent-depressive-disorder-in-children-and-teens

• https://www.copeandlive.foundation/blog/understanding-childhood-trauma

• https://www.copeandlive.foundation/blog/childhood

• https://www.copeandlive.foundation/blog/suicide-prevention

Counselling is like having a friendly chat with a trained therapist who helps you work through any emotional, mental, or behavioral challenges you might be facing. It’s not just for grown-ups, it can also be super helpful for kids and teens who are struggling in their lives. The therapist just listens to you and gives you some awesome tips on how to handle those tough emotions and situations.

What can counselling help you with?

Counseling can assist you in managing various challenges, including:

• Mental Health Conditions: Depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and sleep disturbances.

• Physical Health Conditions: Infertility and other medical issues.

• PTSD

• Traumatic Life Events: Grief and Bereavement, relationship breakdowns.

• Work-related stress.

• Persistent Negative Emotions: Difficulty regulating emotions, such as anger or fear.

• Low self-esteem

• Other Issues: Sexual identity and other personal concerns.

• Additionally, counseling can help you address:

• Work or School Performance Issues.

• Substance Abuse as a Coping Mechanism.

• Identifying stressors and managing them.

Child Counselling

It’s important to remember that every child is unique and they all have different responses to the world around them, and the reasons for seeking counseling aren’t the same from child to child. However, there are some situations that appear more prevalent when considering if a child needs counseling like Bullying, Divorce or separation of parents, Anxiety, Depression, any forms of abuse, other Mental health issues, loss of parents or siblings, Trauma or Suddenly Acting Strange. If your child has witnessed or experienced any of these, seek counselling with us as soon as possible. Have you recently changed the school your child attends, separating them from their friends and a familiar environment? You may need to bring them in for counselling if their behaviour, communication and academic performance have changed as a result.

Benefits of Child Counselling

Child counselling is a pivotal component of supporting the holistic well-being of children and adolescents, equipping them with the necessary tools and guidance to overcome life’s challenges. Child and adolescent mental health concerns can also have a detrimental impact on the entire family unit. Parents may feel inadequate in providing assistance to their children, leading to strained communication and further exacerbating familial conflicts. In such situations, family counseling proves to be highly beneficial. During the counseling process, children or teenagers receive support, while parents or guardians gain insights into their child’s emotional state and receive guidance on how to best provide assistance.

Our Child counselling provides support to children in various ways, including:

• Emotional regulation

• Self-confidence enhancement

• Communication skill development

• Stress management and anxiety reduction

• Behavioral problem resolution

• Academic improvement

• Cultivating compassion and empathy within the family and social environment

• Building a resilient mindset

Our Child counsellors are professionals with specialized training in child psychology and therapy techniques.

What to expect from our counselling sessions

During your appointment, you’ll have the chance to share your feelings and emotions with our trained therapists. They’ll be there to listen and support you without any judgment or criticism.

Our therapists can help you understand your feelings and thoughts better, and through critical thinking and other tools, help you find your own solutions to problems. But they won’t usually give you advice or tell you what to do.

Our Counselling sessions can be conducted in various formats, including:

• Face-to-face sessions (1:1)

• Group sessions

• Couples counselling

• Telephone counselling

• Online counseling through live chat services

Counselling is typically conducted once weekly. You might get one counseling session, a few weeks or months of short sessions, or a longer course that lasts for months or even years and with the help and support of your therapist, you’ll gradually start to feel better.

Can you get free counselling with us?

Keep yourself updated on our website, www.copeandlive.foundation and on our social media pages and be the first to find out when we offer free counselling services.

Mental health is fundamental to overall well-being, influencing how we think, feel, and behave in daily life. Good mental health enables individuals to cope with stress, build relationships, and make meaningful contributions to their communities. However, mental health challenges can arise due to various factors, necessitating awareness, early intervention, and appropriate support.

Common Mental Health Conditions

Mental health conditions encompass a range of disorders that affect emotions, thinking, and behavior. Some of the most common include:

• Anxiety disorders – Characterized by excessive worry and fear that interfere with daily activities.

• Bipolar disorder – Marked by extreme mood swings, including episodes of depression and mania.

• Borderline personality disorder – Involves instability in relationships, self-image, and emotions.

• Depression – Persistent sadness and loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) – Recurrent unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors.

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – Triggered by exposure to traumatic events.

• Schizophrenia – A severe mental disorder affecting thought processes, emotions, and perceptions.

Each condition has unique symptoms and treatment approaches, emphasizing the importance of proper diagnosis and management.

Risk Factors for Mental Health Disorders

Mental health conditions can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or socioeconomic background. Several factors contribute to their development, including:

• Socioeconomic challenges – Financial stress, unemployment, and social isolation increase vulnerability.

• Childhood trauma – Abuse, neglect, or loss of a parent can have lasting effects on mental health.

• Genetic and biological factors – A family history of mental illness, chronic health conditions, and brain chemistry imbalances can contribute to mental disorders.

• Environmental influences – Stressful life events, substance use, and lifestyle choices also play a role.

Early Warning Signs

Recognizing early signs of mental health concerns is essential for timely intervention. Some key indicators include:

• Persistent feelings of sadness or mood swings.

• Withdrawal from social activities and relationships.

• Changes in sleeping or eating patterns.

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.

• Increased use of alcohol or drugs.

• Thoughts of self-harm or hopelessness.

• Unexplained physical symptoms such as headaches or stomach issues.

Seeking support from healthcare professionals, family, or friends is crucial when these signs are present.

Maintaining Good Mental Health

Taking proactive steps to preserve mental well-being can improve quality of life. Here are five key strategies:

1. Connect with others – Build and maintain strong relationships with family, friends, and colleagues.

2. Stay active – Engage in regular physical activities like walking, yoga, or sports.

3. Keep learning – Acquiring new skills fosters confidence and cognitive stimulation.

4. Practice mindfulness – Being present and aware of emotions can reduce stress.

5. Give back – Acts of kindness and volunteering promote emotional well-being.

The Impact of Alcohol and Drugs

Substance use significantly affects mental health. While moderate alcohol consumption may not be harmful for everyone, excessive drinking is linked to depression, anxiety, and suicide. Studies indicate that:

• 65% of suicides involve alcohol use.

• 70% of men who die by suicide have consumed alcohol beforehand.

• Nearly one-third of young people who take their lives do so while intoxicated.

Similarly, drug use can contribute to or worsen mental health disorders. Long-term use of substances such as cannabis, methamphetamines, and ecstasy has been associated with anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. Substance dependence can also impair cognitive function and lead to addiction.

Dispelling Mental Health Myths

There are many misconceptions about mental health. Here are some common myths debunked:

• Myth: Only people with weak character develop mental health disorders. Fact: Mental health conditions are medical issues, not signs of weakness.

• Myth: Teenagers do not experience mental health problems; mood swings are just part of adolescence. Fact: Half of all mental health conditions begin before age 14.

• Myth: People with mental illnesses are violent and unpredictable. Fact: Only 5% of violent crimes are linked to individuals with severe mental health disorders.

• Myth: Medications for mental health disorders are harmful. Fact: Properly prescribed medications help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing a mental health disorder involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examinations, and psychological assessments. Mental health professionals use diagnostic tools such as the DSM-5-TR to classify and identify conditions.

Treatment options vary based on the condition but may include:

• Psychotherapy – Evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and exposure therapy help individuals manage symptoms.

• Medication – Antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and anti-anxiety drugs can aid symptom control.

• Self-care strategies – Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a balanced diet, getting quality sleep, managing stress, and fostering social support contribute to well-being.

Recovery and Building Resilience

Recovery from mental health conditions is a personal and ongoing journey. While challenges may arise, individuals can lead fulfilling lives with the right support. Key elements of recovery include:

• Support networks – Family, friends, and professional counselors provide emotional and practical support.

• Self-direction – Setting personal goals fosters motivation and independence.

• Positive environment – A stable home and work setting contribute to mental well-being.

• Financial stability – Economic security helps reduce stress and anxiety.

• Self-care and responsibility – Developing coping skills empowers individuals in their recovery journey.

Conclusion

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being. While mental health disorders can present significant challenges, early recognition, proper treatment, and a supportive environment can foster recovery. By increasing awareness, breaking the stigma, and ensuring access to mental health resources, society can create an inclusive and compassionate space where everyone can thrive.

(Abubakar Magaji Yabo – Sarkin Yamman Yabo – Sokoto State Coordinator Cope & Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation)

The paramount roles of a mother in the upbringing, development, and overall mental well-being of a child cannot be overstated. From the earliest stages of life, the interactions that a child has with their mother typically establish a solid foundation for their mental health, resilience, and overall well-being.

A mother’s role extends beyond mere child-rearing, encompassing nurturing and fostering emotional regulation, empathy, social skills, and cognitive development in her offspring.

From birth, children are naturally attuned to their mothers’ emotional cues. For instance, the way a mother responds to her baby’s needs, whether through feeding or engaging in play, establishes the foundation for trust and safety. A mother’s crucial role revolves around making children feel consistently loved and supported, which significantly contributes to fostering a sense of security essential for healthy emotional development. This initial foundation predicts future emotional, mental, social, and cognitive outcomes.

Research has demonstrated that mothers play a pivotal role in fostering their child’s mental well-being by responding positively to their emotions. Conversely, when mothers negatively respond to their child’s emotions by ignoring or dismissing them without acknowledging their feelings, it can adversely impact the child’s emotional development and mental health. A strong bond between mothers and children has been identified as a crucial element for their healthy development.

The mother should be entrusted with the responsibility of supporting children in making decisions, setting boundaries, and encouraging independence (self-reliance). As the primary caregiver, educator, and nurturer, the mother should surround herself with activities that contribute to the development of a child’s mental and emotional well-being. She provides love, care, and support, as well as coping modalities, to the child. Additionally, she plays a crucial role in teaching children social skills and instilling moral values, ethics, and appropriate behaviors.

The development of any society is contingent upon the existence of mentally, socially, emotionally, and physically sound children. Mothers play a crucial role in this process, but it is essential to recognize the immense and invaluable contributions they make to their children’s development. Therefore, supporting mothers, honoring their efforts, and understanding their challenges are essential steps towards realizing a more emotionally and mentally aware society.

Coach Ebere Amaraizu is a PREVENT SOC policing expert and trainer. He is a U.S. IVLP Alumni and a certified cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) coach. Additionally, he is a child care expert and developer and a certified Sports Coach from the National Institute for Sports (N.I.S.). He is also an Olympic sports administrator and manager and the lead consultant at Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation and Coli Mental Health Academy. 

All preparations are complete for the smooth takeoff and commencement of the Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation’s 2025 first-quarter Action Plan. This initiative will encompass child care and development as well as adolescent mental health. This announcement was made to newsmen on January 28, 2025, by the Executive Director of the Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation, Reverend Chukwudiebube Nwachukwu.

According to him, during this first quarter of 2025, all our focal persons across the country are to implement our action plan in their respective states, as per their specific areas of need, just as the Resource Center has identified the school for the hearing impaired - The Special Education Center at Ogbete with a large number of children and adolescents there. Our Psychosocial engagements with them will teach them self awareness and help strengthen their cognitive and affective abilities. This will enable them to unlock their potentials, overcome their fears and stigmas and become valuable assets to society irrespective of their impairments.

“We have already conducted our needs assessment for the intervention to enable us to focus more on the support we shall provide and we are ready to commence the intervention, which is structured into three layers. We anticipate that this approach will be more productive”.

All our state focal persons have also identified their schools in their respective states.

Being a responsible and responsive father entails significant responsibilities. As such, it is crucial to recognize that the role of a father extends beyond being the head of the family. Instead, fathers are expected to act as coaches, mentors, and role models. A father is the male parent of a child. The primary responsibility of a father is to ensure the proper development and upbringing of their child, considering that the family is the immediate environment in which a child grows. Children undergo various developmental processes that may expose them to vulnerabilities. It is the responsibility of the father to strengthen the guidance and exercise effective supervisory roles to ensure that the child overcomes any challenges they may face in life, including stress, worries, anxieties, fears, and other negative emotions.

The Role of the Father in the Home

The father assumes the primary parental, social, and spiritual responsibilities, which are essential for the child’s holistic development. By fostering connections with others, the father ensures the child’s spiritual, mental, emotional, physical, and social growth.

Furthermore, the father provides financial and physical support to the family, instilling in children the importance of honesty and integrity. As a role model, coach, and mentor, the father guides children towards positive behavior and teaches them problem-solving skills aligned with biblical principles, such as “Teach children the good way, and when they grow up, they will not depart from it.”

It is pertinent to note that child upbringing and development should not be taken for granted. A father should be intentional in his role as the pillar of strength in the family, providing unwavering support and instilling discipline with an open mind. A father should be humble, supportive, and loyal to his family, ready to protect them with unconditional love for all members.

The role of a father in the upbringing and development of children for a compassionate society cannot be overstated. However, most fathers are not present to fulfill these pivotal roles and responsibilities, leaving them to their spouses due to legal battles or other pressing issues. The ability of a father to recognize these significant responsibilities is crucial for developing measures aimed at stabilizing cognitive, affective, and psychomotor abilities. For instance, through established friendly communication between the father and child, even amidst challenges, the father can identify when the child is struggling with issues and experiencing behavioral changes and mood swings. The father should recognize the immense responsibility they have embraced and that the success of any child and family depends on their ability to coordinate effectively and prioritize the family above all else. The father should not disconnect themselves from their family or abandon their role and responsibilities of proper upbringing of a child, as the future of any society and family is predicated on the well-being of our children.

The writer, Coach Ebere Amaraizu is a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Coach. A U.S. IVLP Alumni, Child Care Expert, Developer, and Certified NIS Coach, Olympic Sports Administrator and Manager, Coach Amaraizu is the pioneer chairman of Rangers International Football Club Foundation and the Lead Consultant at Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation & Coli Mental Health Academy.

Caring for a child entails implementing measures that ensure the provision of physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being, as well as addressing other developmental needs. Additionally, it involves offering love, affection, proper nutrition for brain health, a safe environment, guidance, education, and other forms of support to facilitate their growth into healthy and well-rounded individuals.

This approach also involves paying attention to a child’s verbal and nonverbal routines and encouraging exploration and play. Additionally, it fosters positive communication, enabling the identification of stress, anxiety, mood swings, fear, worries, and potential causes. Furthermore, it requires appropriate attention to be given.

This is because when these issues are not addressed, they can trigger behavioral changes and struggles, which can motivate their navigation to negative pathways and offending behavior. They seek solace, and if it is not coming from you, it may come from a child or peer who has developed contact with members of organized criminal groups.

...Coach Amaraizu

The International Association of Therapists (IAOTH) Republic of Ireland has certified Coli Mental Health Academy as an Accredited Training Provider in the field of Mental Health. This certification is contained in the certification letter issued by the Association to Coli Mental Health Academy on January 16, 2025, and signed by Tania Magdalene-Casey, the IAOTH President.

As outlined in the certification letter, Coli Mental Health Academy has been recognized as an Accredited Training Provider by the International Association of Therapists (IAOTH). This recognition is contingent upon the Academy’s commitment to upholding the professional training standards required for membership in the IAOTH organization.

The International Association of Therapists has affirmed the status of Coli Mental Health Academy as an Accredited Training Provider within the organization.

In response to the development, Johnbosco Chika Chukwuorji, PhD, a U.S. IVLP Alumni, Clinical Psychologist, and Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Flint, Michigan, applauded the initiative. Dr. Chukwuorji, who also holds the position of Fulbright Visiting Research Fellow/Faculty Affiliate in the Department of Psychology, College of Sciences and the Health Professions, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States, and is a Visiting Trainer at the Coli Mental Health Academy, emphasized that the certificate of accredited training providers issued to the Academy demonstrates its compliance with all the necessary requirements for conducting mental health training and therapies. This accreditation is expected to significantly enhance the awareness and education on mental health.

The Executive Director, Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation, Reverend Chukwudiebube Nwachukwu, expressed his gratitude for the certification and accreditation granted by the international body, to the Coli Mental Health Academy (COLI Academy). “This recognition will facilitate the creation of impactful initiatives that align with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG3) agenda of the global goals, as well as the academy’s motto, “Sanitas est Divitiae” (Health is Wealth)’” he said.

It is noteworthy that Coli Mental Health Academy previously launched its website at www.ColiAcademy.org to provide opportunities for its students and prospective students. The academy is a collaborative effort between Cope and Live Mental Health Foundation.

The Executive Director of the Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation, Reverend Chukwudiebube Nwachukwu, reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to promoting mental health awareness and prioritization in 2025 and beyond. This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals 3 Agenda for Good Health and Well-being. Reverend Nwachukwu made this announcement shortly after a virtual meeting with all Focal Persons of the Foundation across the country. The meeting was held to assess actions, interventions implemented in 2024, and review the Action Plan for 2025.

Before the presentation of the Action Plan for 2025, which is centered around Child Care Development (Children and Adolescents Mental Health—Holistic Approach), he commended the efforts of Focal Persons across the federation for their resilience and purposefulness, which have led to the recording of monumental results in mental health awareness and education. He urged them not to relent in their efforts.

In a related development, the Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation has launched its website for the Coli Mental Health Academy at www.coliAcademy.org. According to the Executive Director of Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation, Reverend Chukwudiebube Nwachukwu, the Coli Mental Health Academy is the brainchild of the Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation, established to promote mental health education, awareness, psychosocial engagement, Research and support. The mental health Academy will further equip individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate mental health challenges and enhance their overall well-being. Recall that Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation, the parent body of COLI Academy has accreditation with the IAOTH and courses have been designed for individuals, cooperating bodies, educators, families, and couples, such as the Psychology of Addiction and Recovery, Stress Management, Anger Management, Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Guidance and Counseling - A Guide for Schools and Educators, Bullying and Cyberbullying, and Psychology of Emotions, among many others. With more courses, including Climate Change and Mental Health, being added soon, the Academy aims to provide comprehensive mental health education and support.

We strongly encourage everyone to visit our mental academy website and thoroughly explore its resources for comprehensive guidance. The Mental Health Academy will also be offering mental health training programs to various institutions, such as schools, organizations, sports teams, farmers, and professionals from all walks of life.

The assumption that children do not experience mental health changes may be inaccurate and misleading, potentially exacerbating challenges for the child, their family, and the broader society. This is because the future of any society is contingent upon the well-being of its children. A society that neglects the development of sound children may miss out on the sustenance of its own development, as replacements for these individuals may emerge from the population.

One crucial fact we must acknowledge is that children can indeed face mental health challenges. However, it is essential for parents, guardians, caregivers, educators, and other gatekeepers in child development, care, and custody to be vigilant and responsible in recognizing these challenges. For instance, a child may have endured experiences such as abuse, treatment, or threats, which can lead to fear, shock, anxiety, stress, worry, or even panic. These traumatic experiences can have a lasting impact on a child’s mental well-being, and they may not feel comfortable speaking up about them. Similarly, witnessing violent clashes between parents or experiencing frequent caning by teachers and caregivers can also be traumatic for children.

The primary objective of this writeup is to raise awareness about the mental health challenges that children face and the detrimental consequences they can have. Traumatic experiences encountered by children can lead to various mental health conditions, including dementia and ADHD. These challenges can result in neurocognitive decline, affecting children’s cognitive, emotional, and psychomotor development. Anxiety and fear in children can manifest in various ways, such as difficulty sleeping, irritability, and avoidance of daily activities. These fears and anxieties can trigger physical symptoms like headaches, stomach aches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. They can also lead to problems with eating and cause negative thought patterns. These mental health issues can interfere with a child’s development, family dynamics, and school relationships and activities.

Childhood trauma can leave children with distressing experiences that, if not addressed, can negatively impact their brain health. This can manifest in memory issues, affecting their concentration and retention abilities, which can have a significant impact on their behavior. Childhood trauma can also motivate offending behavior in children. Furthermore, it can make children vulnerable and trigger cognitive impairment, leading to other behavioral changes that can lead them down negative pathways.

Extensive Mental Health Training for Key Stakeholders

Parents, guardians, caregivers, teachers, and other influential individuals must receive comprehensive mental health training to comprehend the techniques and methods for effectively addressing children at various stages of development. This training should provide a deep understanding of mental health and child psychology to prevent the perpetuation of children who have experienced traumatic events. Such events can have counterproductive effects on their child development.

All schools and organizations that interact with children should establish counseling and trauma units staffed by certified mental health professionals. Regular seminars and workshops on child mental health should be encouraged to foster continuous learning and awareness.

Research has indicated that children experience a range of mental health difficulties, including fear, stress, and anxiety. These challenges often lead them to adopt negative coping mechanisms and pathways in response to their circumstances, which they may struggle to express effectively. Furthermore, studies have revealed that children encounter a variety of mental health challenges, including Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), among others.

The consequences of neglecting the prioritization of child care, development, and mental health by parents, teachers, guardians, and caregivers can lead to the development of mental health-related issues in children. It is imperative that these individuals consistently observe children in their care, pay attention to their expressions, and provide a listening ear to their concerns. By doing so, they can identify potential challenges and promptly address them. Additionally, it is crucial to monitor children for any signs of mental health challenges, such as excessive shouting, threatening behavior, or verbal abuse. Such actions can have detrimental effects on a child’s mental well-being and may lead to low self-esteem. Therefore, it is essential to seek appropriate treatment for these challenges, as excessive punishment or trauma can further exacerbate the situation.

If you work with children, read the entire article and discover how to become a better Parent, Guardian, Caregiver, and Teacher by purchasing a copy of our Ebook.