Godfrey Okoye University Establishes Mental Health Unit!
Godfrey Okoye University Establishes Mental Health Unit
The School of Psychology Clinic at Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, has inaugurated a Mental Health Unit to prioritize the mental well-being of students. This initiative is supported by a collaboration between the University’s Press Team and the Directorate of Student Mentorship and Parent Relations.
As part of its awareness campaign, the Press Team, led by its Director, Miss Ezinne Ezu, organized a Mental Health Awareness Day at the Ebele Jonathan Convocation Arena. The event brought together experts in mental health to educate and engage with the student body.
Speaking at the event, Lady Jane Ndukwe, Director of the Directorate of Student Mentorship and Parent Relations, emphasized the university’s commitment to fostering a mentally healthy environment for its students. She noted that the event focused on critical issues such as depression, anxiety, fear, and both sexual and emotional abuse. Students were provided with practical strategies to identify, understand, and address these challenges while building resilience and better mental health.
Lady Ndukwe also highlighted a similar mental health awareness session held for parents during the Parents’ Forum on 14th November 2024. During that forum, speakers Miss Aghaonu Lucy and Miss Azubuike Mary shared insights on fostering stronger connections between parents and children. These same experts addressed the students, using relatable examples to explore various dimensions of mental health.
In her presentation, Mrs. Uzoamaka Nwachukwu of the Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation advised students to manage their emotions constructively. She encouraged them to acknowledge feelings of sadness but not let such emotions dictate their actions. Mrs. Nwachukwu stressed the importance of mental health awareness in preventing suicidal thoughts and actions, urging parents to monitor behavioral changes in their children and seek professional help when necessary.
Reverend Chukwudi Nwachukwu, also from the Cope and Live Foundation, cautioned against excessive screen time and the unrestricted use of mobile phones by children. He highlighted the potential harm of prolonged exposure to screen rays and the risks of external negative influences from online platforms.
Mrs. Peggy Chukwuemeka presented on depression ,addiction and the war against Sapa.
The event also featured four interactive workshops facilitated by experts and students, each addressing critical aspects of mental wellness:
- Relationship, Sex, and Love: Dealing with Narcissistic Tendencies
Facilitators: Mrs. Uzoamaka Nwachukwu and Rev. Chukwudi Nwachukwu - Understanding and Avoiding Sexual and Emotional Abuse: Raising Awareness of Mental Health and Safety
Facilitators: Lady Jane Ndukwe and Asonze Diamond Ebube - Parental Misunderstanding: Coping Mechanisms
Facilitator: Mrs. Onyi Mammah - Friendship and Stigmatization
Facilitator: Uchenna Innocent Igboeme
The workshops provided students with practical tools to navigate their mental health challenges while fostering a culture of openness, respect, and mutual support. Godfrey Okoye University continues to set a benchmark in creating safe spaces for both students and parents to address mental health issues effectively.
