Mental Health First Aid for Nigerian Pastors, Imams and Teachers

The Initiative for Cognitive Therapies and Mental Health (ICTMH) organized a mental health training titled “Mental Health First Aid for Nigerian Pastors, Imams and Teachers” on October 3, 2025. The training was facilitated by Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Gidado, who guided participants through the importance of recognizing mental health challenges and providing appropriate initial support to individuals experiencing emotional or psychological distress.

The training focused on equipping religious leaders and teachers with the knowledge and skills needed to identify early signs of mental health difficulties, respond with empathy, and offer appropriate support within their respective communities. Recognizing that pastors, imams, and teachers are often among the first people individuals turn to when facing personal, emotional, or family challenges, the session emphasized their important role in promoting mental well-being and encouraging individuals to seek professional help when necessary.

Participants were encouraged to approach mental health concerns with understanding, compassion, and sensitivity, while recognizing the importance of reducing stigma, correcting misconceptions, and creating safe spaces where people can openly discuss their emotional struggles without fear of judgment or discrimination.

Through this initiative, ICTMH reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening mental health awareness and building the capacity of community leaders to respond more effectively to mental health needs. By empowering religious leaders and educators with essential mental health first aid knowledge, the training contributed to the broader goal of fostering healthier, more informed, and more supportive communities across Nigeria.

At ICTMH, we believe that mental health awareness begins with knowledge, compassion, and the willingness to support one another. By equipping those who serve and guide our communities, we take an important step toward making mental health support more accessible and ensuring that individuals experiencing psychological distress receive the understanding and assistance they need.