October 29, (THEWILL) – The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr Claudiana Sanwo-Olu, has said that the issue of depression is quite alarming in recent times as it affects countless lives, saying all hands must be joined to combat the monster.
Sanwo-Olu, who was speaking as Mother of the Day at this year’s Annual Christian Leadership Empowerment Summit, an annual gathering of multi-dimensional ministers of the Gospel of Christ and their leaders across a broad spectrum of Nigerian Christianity in Lagos, said the church has a unique role to play in combating the depression epidemic.
Represented by Mrs Deborah Suara, she said, “In these challenging times, it is crucial that we come together as a community and as Christians to support those who are suffering from depression and to foster an environment of understanding and healing.
“Depression is a silent battle that many individuals face on a daily basis. It knows no boundaries, affecting people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. It can be debilitating, isolating, and overwhelming. However, we believe that there is hope, and that hope can be found within the walls of the church.
“The church has a unique role to play in combating the epidemic of depression, being a place of solace, a sanctuary where individuals can find comfort, guidance, and a sense of belonging. Within the church community, we have the opportunity to create a safe space for open conversations about mental health, destigmatizing depression, and encouraging individuals to seek help.
“In view of this, we must combat this monster not only from the spiritual angle through prayers but also by offering medical assistance and counseling where necessary and by providing resources and trained professionals, we can offer a helping hand to those in need.
“Through support groups, pastoral care, and prayer, we can offer a holistic approach to healing, addressing not only the emotional and psychological aspects of depression but also the spiritual well-being of individuals”..
Sanwo-Olu stressed that it is not enough for the church to act alone, saying collaboration is key.
“We must work hand in hand with healthcare professionals, mental health organisations, and government agencies to create a comprehensive support system. By joining forces, we can ensure that those battling depression receive the care, understanding, and resources they deserve.
Also speaking at the occasion, the Convener of the Summit, Pastor Adekunle Olusanya, said the reason for choosing this year’s theme, ‘The Epidemic of Depression: The Role of the Church,’ is to allow Christian leaders across the country to react to the impression being created by many people that the leadership of the Church is not moved by the harrowing consequences of depression as it affects the people who they are called to shepherd by the Lord Jesus Christ.
Olusanya said, “We the Christian leaders have to redefine our perception of ministry and re-engineer our ministerial strategies on a way that would put Nigeria on an even keel.”
Other clerics and Christian leaders that speak on ways of combating depression at the summit include, Presiding Bishop, Miraclebreed Assembly, Ajah, Lagos , Bishop Femi Soneye; a Christian Counselor and Life Coach, Dr Blessing Ayemhere, among others.
AYO ESAN, has been actively reporting and analyzing political events for different newspapers for over 18 years. He has also successfully covered national and state elections in Nigeria since the inception of this democracy in 1999.
