Rotary Club of Port Harcourt GRA Commemorates World Mental Health Day 2024 with Workplace Wellness Seminar
On October 10, 2024, the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt GRA, in collaboration with 12 other Rotary Clubs within District 9141 and the Neuropsychiatry Department of the University of Port Harcourt, hosted a highly impactful seminar to mark World Mental Health Day. Themed “It’s Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace,” the event aimed to raise awareness of the importance of mental well-being in professional settings. It brought together mental health experts, professionals, and Rotarians to address the growing need for mental health consciousness in today’s work environments.
The keynote address was delivered by Professor Chidozie Donald Chukwujekwu, Head of the Department of Mental Health at the University of Port Harcourt. In his presentation, titled “Mental Health Issues in the Workplace in Present-Day Nigeria: Types, Drivers, and Recommendations,” he emphasized the often-overlooked impact of stress, workload, and stigma on employees’ mental health. He called for a shift in workplace culture to prioritize mental well-being as a critical component of employee productivity and overall organizational health.
Following the keynote, a dynamic Round Table Discussion on “Breaking Stigma and Building Support Systems” was moderated by Dr. Frances Adiukwu, Head of the Neuropsychiatry Department at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. Panelists included Professor Rosemary Ekechukwu, Dr. Olufisayo Adesokun, and Rotarian Shittu Abdulrahman, who shared practical strategies for creating supportive work environments. They emphasized actionable steps employers can take to reduce stigma and enhance mental health support systems in the workplace.
Rotarian Shittu Abdulrahman also presented a compelling action paper on Rotary’s Mental Health Initiatives, highlighting the significance of community-led approaches and Rotary’s commitment to addressing mental health challenges. He encouraged attendees to continue the conversation and take proactive steps toward sustaining mental health advocacy beyond the event.
The seminar concluded with a moving session of personal testimonials from individuals who courageously shared their mental health journeys. These stories underscored the importance of open dialogue and the need to de-stigmatize mental health struggles in both personal and professional domains.
Attended by over 300 professionals, the seminar created a safe and supportive space for meaningful conversations about mental health. Participants left empowered to implement mental health-friendly policies and practices within their organizations.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all who participated and contributed to the success of this impactful event.
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