Nigeria faces a critical challenge in addressing the mental health needs of children and adolescents. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 1 in 6 young people aged 10–19 worldwide experience a mental health condition, but mental health services for this age group are limited, especially in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria.
Despite the increasing global awareness of mental health issues, Nigeria’s mental health system remains underdeveloped, in this, children and adolescents are greatly underserved and marginalised.
In light of these challenges,
Blaze Health Foundation is committed to combating mental health inequity through a unique combination of research, innovation, and community-based interventions. We focus on providing accessible, evidence-based mental health services and education specifically targeted at children, teens, and young adults.
We partner with individuals, families, communities, and health care experts to tackle health inequity among rural dwellers to help them to reach their full potentials
We pioneer research-backed projects that prioritize outcomes, employing evidence-based approaches to address the critical mental health needs of children, adolescents and young adults
# **Rebuilding Hope: Our Mission to Educate Refugee Children**## **The Crisis We Address**In conflict zones across [Region], over **4.3 million children** have been displaced from their homes (UNHCR 2023). Without…
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Nigeria faces a critical challenge in addressing the mental health needs of children and adolescents. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 1 in 6 young people aged 10–19 worldwide experience a mental health condition, but mental health services for this age group are limited, especially in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria. Despite the increasing global awareness of mental health issues, Nigeria’s mental health system remains underdeveloped, in this, children and adolescents are greatly underserved and marginalised.
Recent studies estimate that about 20 - 30% of children and adolescents in Nigeria suffer from mental health disorders. Common conditions include anxiety, depression, and behavioural disorders, with many of these issues exacerbated by poverty, trauma, and social stigmatization.
Sadly, Nigeria has fewer than 300 psychiatrists for its entire population of over 200 million people, translating to approximately 1 psychiatrist per 500,000 people. Even fewer specialises in child and adolescent mental health. Many regions lack facilities, specialists, or even basic mental health services, leaving children and teens without the support they need.
Moreover, mental health is heavily stigmatized in Nigeria, with many parents and communities attributing mental health conditions to spiritual causes or moral failings. This stigma prevents families from seeking help, leaving many children untreated and vulnerable to more severe mental health challenges as they grow older. Studies have shown that untreated mental health disorders in childhood can lead to increased dropout rates, substance abuse, and criminal behaviour, further perpetuating cycles of poverty and social disadvantage.
Our mission is to promote sound health, advocate for health equity, assist the destitute, and sensitize the masses on health-related topics.