Mobile Manna Foundation, a leading NGO in Uyo celebrates World Mental Health Day in Akwa Ibom State with the theme: Mental Health is a Universal Human Right” aims to improve knowledge, raise awareness, and drive actions that protect mental health as a human right.
Theme: Mental Healthcare Is A Universal Right.
Venue: University Of Uyo Main Campus.
Time: 12:oo noon.
Host: Most Right Rev, Fr., Dr. Donatus Pius Ukpong.
Mobile Manna Foundation, a leading NGO in Uyo celebrates World Mental Health Day in Akwa Ibom State with the theme: Mental Health is a Universal Human Right” aims to improve knowledge, raise awareness, and drive actions that protect mental health as a human right.
The Guest Lecturer named Prof. Mojisola Eseyin, Dean of Law had the topic acted out in form of a play with a synopsis: “Anyone could be a victim of mental illness.”
The event had the life -time serving Patrons of the Foundation decorated. The five Patrons who were highly represented appreciated the Foundation for honour bestowed on them and pledged to serve the Foundation to foster the development of humanity.The climax of the event was the launching of the Chief Executive Officer’s book entitled “God in the City.” The book that was reviewed by Prof. Aniekan Brown (ably represented by Dr. Nsikak Idiong from the Department of Media Studies, University of Uyo), emphasizes on a life-enhancing city, where economics, education, culture, religion and etc meet for human development. The book has the ideal city in picture where there would be common goal for the development of humanity and the city.
The Chairman of the event in the person of Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem, immediate past Secretary to the State Government, Akwa Ibom State, summarized the lecture delivered. The Chairman who was already brained with alot of experiences as regards mental illness, called everyone to be of assistance to the Foundation. The Chairman without leaving one of the objectives of the day forgotten, saw to the success of the CEO’s book launch to mark his 25th Silver Jubilee in Priesthood.
The event came to a close with a vote of thanks given by Hon. Justice Winifred Effiong, Director of Administration, Mobile Manna Foundation, also with that of the Chief Executive Officer. The event had closing prayers said by the Celebrator, Rev. Fr. Donatus Ukpong, Associate Professor of Systematic Theology and Nigerian Pentecostalism.
The event attracted eminent personalities including the former SSG, Akwa Ibom State, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem who was the chairman of the occasion, other resource persons from Academia, Civil Society, Clergymen, Security Agencies and Legal Luminaries.
Thank you Mobile Manna Foundation for the vision and passion for vulnerable segment of the society.
See pictures below.
Dementia is not a specific disease. Rather, several diseases cause dementia. The term ‘dementia’ is an umbrella term used to describe symptoms of cognitive impairment, and within the dementia umbrella, there are many different variations.
Dementia is a group of thinking and social symptoms that interferes with daily functioning. Dementia is a group of conditions characterised by impairment of at least two brain functions, such as memory loss and judgement. In Nigeria, there are more than 100,00 cases of dementia per year.
Types of Dementia
There are over 100 types of dementia being researched and treated today. There is dementia resulting from years of alcohol misuse. There is dementia associated with Parkinson’s Disease. There is dementia that is a result of a traumatic brain injury. Of this variety, there are four types of dementia found and treated most commonly. These four are briefly explained below:
1. Alzheimer’s Disease: Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. It is characterized by a gradual decline in memory, thinking, behaviour and social skills. Alzheimer’s causes brain cells to shrink and eventually die and is the result of an abnormal build-up of protein around brain cells.
2. Dementia with Lewy Body: People with Lewy Body experience fluctuating cognition; they have moments or periods of clarity and make complete sense followed by other times of confusion and nonsensical thinking. Lewy Body Dementia causes its victims to be extremely sensitive to anti-psychotic medications which can typically help those with either Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s.
3. Vascular Dementia: Sometimes called “Post Stroke Dementia”, Vascular Dementia is actually brain damage traced to cardiovascular problems or mini-strokes that cause bleeding or harm in the brain. It commonly happens following a stroke. Simply put, Vascular Dementia presents itself mostly through cognitive changes as a result of brain damage. The use of medications has been shown to prevent or slow further brain damage, therefore controlling the progress of Vascular Dementia.
4. Fronto-Temporal Dementia (FTD): This occurs when there is deterioration to the Frontal and Temporal Lobes of the brain. The person experiences problems with language and significant changes in their personality and behaviour. The Temporal lobe affects how one behaves or reacts in the world based on outward input while the Frontal lobe has to do with cognitive and emotional processes, and voluntary movement. When someone has FTD, they slowly withdraw into themselves or may lose inhibitions. They may also lose interest in others around them and their surroundings. Their emotions become empty and there is little to no awareness of the needs of others, and their verbal communication skills become predominantly weak and decrease significantly over time.
Causes
Genes play a role in dementia but patterns of inheritance vary. Current research shows that people who have a parent or sibling with Alzheimer’s are more likely to develop the disease than those who do not. Vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, and fronto-temporal dementia have not yet been linked to genetics in most cases. So out of the four common types of dementia, Alzheimer’s is the type with the most likely genetic link based on current research.
Environmental and lifestyle factors also greatly affect our chances of developing a particular disease we may have inherited. Fror this reason, it is important to develop an active, healthy lifestyle to avoid many types of illness.
Symptoms
Dementia requires a medical diagnosis but symptoms include; forgetfulness, memory impairment, falling, sleep disorder, paraphasia, limited social skills and thinking abilities so impaired that it interferes with daily functioning.
Having memory loss alone doesn’t mean that you have dementia. Memory loss has different causes but memory loss is one of the early signs of the condition.
Symptoms include cognitive decline, behavioural changes, changes in mood and other psychological conditions.
Cognitive: mental decline, struggle with visual and spatial abilities, disorientation, inability to speak or understand language, delusions, mental confusion, inability to recognise common things, difficulty handling complex tasks, or difficulty with planning and organising.
Behavioural: irritability, agitation, personality changes, restlessness, repeating questions, tasks and phrases; lack of restraint, or wandering and getting lost.
Mood: anxiety, loneliness, swings, or nervousness.
Psychological: depression, hallucination, anxiety, or paranoia
Muscular: inability to combine muscle movements or unsteady walking
The stages of dementia vary from person to person and the type of dementia. Keeping the four common types of dementia in mind, these seven stages are the usual progression that is experienced:
No symptoms yet, but tests might reveal a problem
Very mild changes in behaviour but independence remains
Mild decline is noticeable (e.g. changes in thinking, forgetting events, and repeating statements)
Moderate decline (trouble remembering recent events and handling money)
A moderate to severe decline where they forget names, are unsure what time of day it is, and need some assistance with basic daily tasks
Severe decline (forgetting their spouse’s name, their personality is changing, and they need help eating and going to the bathroom).
Very severe decline (unable to walk, can no longer speak their thoughts, and spend the most time in bed).
Treatment
Dementia can be helped but the condition cannot be cured. It is important to see a doctor if you or a loved one exhibits dementia symptoms. Some treatable medical conditions can cause dementia symptoms, so it’s important to determine the cause. Depending on the cause, some dementia symptoms might be reversible.
Background
In 2014, there were an estimated 246 million (range 162 -324 million) people in the world that have used an illegal drug in the past 12 months. The drugs used include cannabis, opiates (such as heroin), cocaine and amphetamine-type stimulants. Globally, the most common illegal drug used is cannabis. In Nigeria, drug use problems are found throughout the country but there are no official estimates of the number of drug users in the country. However, the numbers are considered large enough to be of concern.
The most common illegal drug used in Nigeria is cannabis. Other illegal drugs used include cocaine, heroin, amphetamine-type stimulants, inhalants and solvents such as glue. There are a lot of misunderstandings about the type of drugs people use and their side effects. This article outlines brief and accurate information on some major drugs used in Nigeria.
Note: We wrote about Cannabis in the first instalment of this series and about Cocaine and Heroin in the second.
Amphetamine-type Stimulants
Common names for amphetamine and methamphetamine in Nigeria: Players, Boys, Nuts, Speed, Uppers, Heart, Heat, Ice, Crystal, Fire and Glass.
Amphetamines are synthetic (chemical, not a natural product) stimulant drugs that speed up the messages travelling between the brain and the body. Amphetamines are generally swallowed but can also be injected, smoked or snorted. A type of amphetamine called methamphetamine commonly comes in small chunky clear crystals that look like frozen ice, while amphetamine commonly comes in a powder form.
Methamphetamine: Factsheet – Positive Choices
Methamphetamine is generally stronger, more addictive and causes more harm. When it is smoked or injected, the effect is usually in 3-7 seconds, but if swallowed, the effect takes place in 15-30 minutes. The duration of effect can last up to 6 hours.
Short-term effects:
Euphoria (intense excitement and happiness)
High levels of energy
Excitement
Increased heart rate
Anxiety and Paranoia
Increased confidence and talkativeness
Reduced appetite (less hungry)
Excessive sweating
Increased sex drive
Long-term effects:
Jaw clenching and teeth grinding
Feeling powerful or better than others
Becoming hostile or aggressive
Reduced appetite and extreme weight loss
Restless sleep
Dry mouth and dental problems
Regular colds and flu
Trouble concentrating
Difficulty breathing
Muscle stiffness
Anxiety, paranoia, psychosis
Depression
Heart and kidney problems
Increased risk of stroke
Needing to use more to get the same effect (developed tolerance)
Dependence on amphetamines
Withdrawal symptoms from amphetamine or methamphetamine generally fade after a week and mostly disappear after a month. Some withdrawal symptoms can include cravings for the drug, increased appetite, confusion and irritability, aches and pains, exhaustion, restless sleep and nightmares, and anxiety, depression and paranoia.
Inhalants and Solvents
Inhalant Abuse & Addiction | Types, Effects, & Treatment
Common names for Inhalants and Solvents in Nigeria: Shaba, Dogua, Solution, Helicopter and Sholisho
Inhalants and solvents are sometimes referred to as volatile substances and found in household, industrial and medical products – including glue, paint, petrol, aerosols, cleaning fluid, and gases – which produce vapours that some people (mostly adolescent and young people) breathe in (via nose or mouth) to get intoxicated or ‘high’. Inhaled fumes enter the bloodstream quickly and the effects are experienced in a few seconds often lasting 2-45 minutes. The effects can be similar to alcohol. Regular use can result in dependence.
Short-term effects:
Initial “high”
Giggling and laughing
Drowsiness and headaches
Bloodshot or glazed eyes
Blurred vision
Nose bleeds, runny nose, sneezing
Bad breath
Agitation and aggression
Long-term effects:
Irritability and depression
Memory loss
Reduced attention span and ability to think clearly
Pimples, rashes or blisters around the mouth and lips
Tremors (body shaking), weight loss and tiredness
Loss of sense of smell and hearing
A majority of long-term effects can be reversed if the person stops using solvents but some cleaning and other products can leave permanent damage to the brain.
Withdrawal symptoms usually start 24-48 hours after the last use and can last for 2 to 5 days. Common withdrawal symptoms can include headache, nausea and stomach pain, anxiety and depression, tiredness and tremors, body cramps and hallucinations (seeing and sensing something that does not exist).
Cough syrups
How cough syrup in Nigeria is creating a generation of addicts – BBC News
Common names for cough syrup in Nigeria (e.g. Coldex, Exol) in Nigeria: Koko, Coco, Crude oil, Slow, Yaro Matunwa, Benylin with Codeine.
Some cold and cough medicines are mind-altering at higher-than-recommended dosages. Cough medicines are easy to purchase, relatively cheap, and often do not require a doctor’s prescription and misuse is reported in Nigeria. A common ingredient found in many cough and cold medications is either Dextromethorphan (DXM) or Promethazine-codeine. Cough and cold medicines are mostly in tablet, capsule or syrup form. Some people mix cough syrup with flavoured drinks, alcohol or cannabis.
Short- and long-term effects
Euphoria, calming, numbness, nausea or vomiting, increased heart rate and blood pressure, slurred speech, dizziness and blurry vision. In higher doses, there can be sensations of physical distortions and hallucinations. Promethazine-codeine cough syrup can lead to a higher risk of fatal overdose (slowing or stopping the heart and lungs) and this risk increases when mixed with alcohol. Long-time use can lead to physical and psychological dependency.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Sleep disturbances, nausea, fast pulse, raised blood pressure, sweating, weakness and headaches. To address dependency, detoxification and rehabilitation will be required.
(This was originally published as a response to drugs and related organised crime in Nigeria, developed in collaboration with UNODC and Nigerian stakeholders and funded by the European Union).
A REPORT ON THE 10TH NATIONAL COLLOQUIUM ON MENTAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT TO MARK INTERNATIONAL WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY, 2022
On October 10, 2022, staff, members, partners and invited guests of Mobile Manna Foundation gathered at Governor’s Office Annex, Wellington Bassey Way, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State to celebrate International World Mental Health Day. The theme for this year’s event was “Making Mental Health and Wellbeing for All a Global Priority” and was carried out under the distinguished chairmanship of Professor Des Wilson.
Before the event kicked off proper, there was an awareness walk from the Mental Health Rehabilitation Centre at No. 72, Ikot Udoro Street, Off Ikot Ekpene Road through Ibom Plaza and all the way to the Colloquium’s venue.
The event proper began at 1:30 pm. The Master of Ceremony, Mrs Imaobong Udo (Angel) started the event by welcoming the audience and recognizing special guests before inviting them to the high table. She then welcomed her co-Master of Ceremony, Dr Happiness Uduk to the microphone. Dr Happiness invited Dr Uduak Umoh, Head of Department, Computer Science, University of Uyo to take the opening prayer.
Father Donatus Ukpong, the Founder and CEO of Mobile Manna Foundation led the audience to recite the National Anthem and the Manna Prayer. Afterwards, Father Ukpong read a special message to properly open the event. In his message, Father Ukpong thanked God for the ability to gather without special protocols to celebrate another World Mental Health Day. He mentioned that the Covid-19 pandemic was devastating and is still menacing the mental health and well-being of many in some places. He further mentioned that the resilience of the Nigerian people is being put to test beyond its elastic limit. “We shall continue to raise the bar of hope for every human person, by demonstrating that ‘an injury to one is an injury to all,’” he stated firmly.
He further stated that the event would examine how a state or government can prioritize the mental health and well-being of their citizens. He appealed to all residents of Akwa Ibom State to take personal responsibility for their mental health and well-being and not to look for wellness where it cannot be found.
The Chairman, Professor Des Wilson gave his opening remarks. Standing on already existing protocols, he asked that we love the mentally ill and pull them closer instead of shunning them and putting them away. He encouraged the audience to listen to the beautiful ideas that will be shared throughout the Colloquium and to put them to good use in their families, churches and communities at large.
St. Peter Parish Choir, Ifa Ikot Obong then took the stage to sonorously render the Foundation’s World Mental Health Day hymn. The hymn celebrated and reinforced the work Mobile Manna Foundation is doing to heal and restore the dignity of the mentally ill in Akwa Ibom State.
Dr Happiness, still acting in the capacity of Master of Ceremony, invited Dr Patrick Umoh for his lecture. He spoke on the topic, “Mental Wellness for Sustainable Development: Legal and Political Framework for Nigeria.”
He briefly commended the Mobile Manna Foundation for her many interventions and mentioned that apart from Mobile Manna Foundation, there is only one psychiatric hospital in Akwa Ibom State. He also talked about how mainstream music amplifies and applauds the use of substances. He further mentioned that the world has changed in many drastic ways and living has become increasingly harder. “Man is man because of sanity,” he said. “We must protect it.”
In his lecture, he did not fail to properly expose how the citizens, the constitution and public institutions fail to hold the government accountable for their failure in prioritizing mental wellness and in other sectors. He also did not fail to point out the absence of government officials in the event and other events such as this one.
He implored that individuals, laws and institutions have no hand in discrimination on grounds of mental illness. He asked that Mobile Manna Foundation undertake a social experiment by secretly visiting local churches and prayer houses to see how many mentally ill persons are beaten to a pulp to chase out their illness.
After the enriching lecture, Dr Happiness opened the floor for reactions. Several questions and comments were given and duly addressed. Most reactions from the audience and the high table revolved around getting everyone involved: government, public institutions and institutions of learning, churches, communities, and individuals. If one suffers, it affects the work that must be done.
Thereafter, a representative of the National Council of Women Society, Akwa Ibom State Chapter took to the podium to give her goodwill message. She thanked and encouraged the foundation for its good works. She also spoke on mental health care being domiciled in primary health care because families and individuals have failed to report these issues. “We always fail to bring these mental health issues to the fore. By not speaking on the drug epidemic, we are conforming to the situation,” she said.
Afterwards, Dr Happiness asked that those who want to support the foundation come to the centre to see the work that’s being done and give their support by whatever means possible, be it cash, clothes, food items, drugs support, etc. She also asked that those who wanted to donate in cash ask the ushers for the Foundation’s account details.
Thereafter, a partner of the Foundation, Channels of Goodnews in Africa took the stage to render a song about Nigeria’s glorious future.
Standing on already existing protocols, Honourable Justice Winifred Effiong, Director of Administration and Chairman of the Local Organising Committee gave the vote of thanks.
The Chairman of the occasion, Professor Des Wilson, gave the closing remarks. The closing prayers were said by a member of the high table, Mr Akaninyene Paulinus.
The event had about 130 participants in attendance. It came to a close at 4:10 pm.
Today, October 9, 2022, Barr. Mrs Iquo Abia led the October Queens to pay a visit to Mobile Manna Foundation No. 72 Ikot Udoro, Off Ikot Ekpene Road, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
They arrived at about 5:27 pm and were equally received by Hon. Justice Winifred Effiong, Director of Administration; Mr. Godwin Ekenene, Barr. Nene and patients of the Foundation.
The opening prayer was led by Barr. Nene, a strong member of the Foundation. The event had Barr. Iquo Abia remaining the spokesperson for the October Queens while Hon. Justice Winifred Effiong spoke for Mobile Manna Foundation.
Barr. Iquo Abia appreciated the Staff and Management of Mobile Manna Foundation for their endless services and encouraged every member of the facility to remain steadfast and focused for God still rewards sincere hearts.
Hon. Justice Winifred Effiong briefly listed the services offered at the center and mentioned number of persons the Foundation has helped and reintegrated into families and the society at large. She thanked the group and called for their continual support of the Foundation.
The group presented their birth month cake to patients of the Foundation and urged the patients to take their medication seriously. One of the ladies who also spoke at the event thanked the Hon. Justice for being humble and remaining committed to the services of helping mentally ill persons. She urged the Management and Staff to be more advocacy-conscious as services rendered at the Foundation is essential for the government and private sectors to be made aware of.
The closing prayer was led by one of the Queens, the wife of a senior pastor of Insight Bible Church.
The October Queens brought food items and equally made a cash donation. May God bless and richly reward them. Amen.
The 2021 International World Mental Health Day and Foundation Day Celebration at Bishop James Moynagh Pastoral Centre, Uyo on October 10, 2021. We thank and appreciate all our guests and participants. May God reward you abundantly. Together, we can strengthen mental healthcare in an unequal world.
OFFICE OF THE MANAGER MOBILE MANNA FOUNDATION, 72 IKOT UDORO ROAD, UYO AKWA IBOM STATE
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER (CEO) AND FOUNDER, MOBILE MANNA FOUNDATION, VERY REV. FR. DR. DONATUS PIUS UKPONG.
I write on behalf of the Staff, Members, Volunteers and entire Patients of our noble Foundation within and outside the state to sincerely felicitate with you, a great mentor, preacher, teacher and leader on your birthday ceremony.
Fr., you are greatly celebrated and held in high esteem by everyone in the religious community as they are thanking God for giving you knowledge and wisdom of understanding. Your sermons are so touching and have inspired many of us in the church to always strive hard to do the will of God no matter how little it is.
Fr., at workplace, we are tremendously humbled and honoured to have the unique opportunity to work under your superlative and vigorous supervision as your unparalleled guidance and support remain acknowledged now and ever.
Fr., at school, students report that your ways and methods of exposition when it has to do with theology have always made them think and bring a logical conclusion especially when you ask some questions like: “Is there any reasonableness in that”? This earns you at school million of respects and you remain one of their best lecturers.
Fr., on this phenomenal day, your patients that you picked from the streets of Nigeria and provided them with shelter, clothes, water and medications wish you the very best that life has to offer as they continuously pray for your dreams of turning this great Foundation into an enlarged home of hope for the mentally challenged ones be achieved.
The entire Members of your team Fr. pray this significant day of yours that God continues to enrich you with sound health and finance to keep doing good for us at MMF and the entire humanity.
Happy birthday Father of the abandoned ones.
Signed
Godwin Ekenene
Manager
Mobile Manna Foundation
