Addressing the mental health needs of a rapidly growing megacity: the new Lagos Mental Health Initiative. Issue 1 (February 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Oluwatayo, Olufemi; Olugbile, Olufemi; Coker, Ayodele
• Is Part Of: International psychiatry. Volume 11:Issue 1(2014)
• Page Start: 20
• Page End: 22
• Publication Date: 2014-02
• Subjects: Psychiatry, Transcultural -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Developing countries -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.89
• DOI: 10.1192/S1749367600004240
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1749-3676

Abstract

Abstract : The Lagos State Government of Nigeria recently launched its Mental Health Policy and Work Plan aimed at addressing the mental health needs of Lagos, one of the world's fastest-growing megacities, and its nearby communities. This paper discusses the contextual basis of this initiative, its components and the challenges faced so far. It argues that urban centres deserve attention in the current push towards investing in mental health services in low- and middle-income countries.