The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), Frigate Deck, has called on Nigerians to end the stigmatisation of people living with mental health conditions, emphasising that mental illness is treatable and should not be regarded as a death sentence.

The President of the association’s Frigate Deck, Comrade Ken Bassey, made the appeal in Calabar during an event organised to commemorate World Mental Health Day in collaboration with the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Calabar.

Bassey said people experiencing mental health challenges deserved understanding, care and an opportunity to live fulfilling lives, adding that their dignity must be protected regardless of their condition.

He explained that mental health challenges extended beyond severe conditions such as schizophrenia and could affect people in different circumstances.

According to him, mental illness should be treated like other health conditions, including malaria and hypertension, rather than being surrounded by fear, discrimination or social rejection.

Bassey said the awareness campaign was designed to educate the public about mental health, highlight the services available at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Calabar, and encourage people experiencing difficulties to seek professional assistance.

He noted that collaboration between the association and the hospital would help expand public understanding of mental health conditions and challenge misconceptions that prevent affected individuals from accessing treatment.

The NAS president also stressed the importance of ensuring that people experiencing mental health crises receive appropriate support rather than being isolated or stigmatised.

He said the association remained committed to public enlightenment on the harmful effects of discrimination against people with mental health conditions.

The event formed part of activities marking World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10 to raise awareness of mental health issues and mobilise efforts to support mental well-being.

Bassey urged Nigerians to show compassion towards people living with mental health conditions and recognise that access to appropriate care and support could help them manage their conditions.