Alafia is my brainchild and a startup I’m currently working on launching. It is a platform that works to reduce the stigma related to seeking mental health care in Nigeria and across Africa.
Solving the pressing mental health crisis in Nigeria, as well as across Africa, is a personal commitment of mine. The escalating suicide rate in Nigeria is deeply alarming, compounded by the prevailing social stigma that prevents open acknowledgement of the issue. To exacerbate matters, the government criminalizes attempted suicide, further entrenching the silence surrounding mental health challenges. I firmly believe that destigmatizing mental health problems is crucial to addressing this crisis. By fostering an environment where individuals feel comfortable seeking assistance from trained professionals and by cultivating a supportive community of like-minded individuals, I believe Alafia can help relieve the crisis at hand.
Alafia, which translates to "Well-being" in the Yoruba language, is a platform and community dedicated to promoting holistic health. It serves as a haven where individuals can connect with mental health professionals and find solace within a supportive community, among other valuable resources. At its core, Alafia aims to nurture the well-being of the Mind, Body, and Soul, offering a comprehensive approach to personal growth and fulfilment.
Our plan for the initial launch is to focus on the 'Mind' aspect, which involves providing counselling services from mental health professionals and fostering a community where individuals can connect, as we recognize that human beings are not meant to endure life's challenges in isolation. Down the road, we'll work on the 'Body' and 'Soul' which involves physical well-being - exercise and joyful movement, eating right, and loving the body you are in, as well as a more spiritual approach to 'Soul' involving - meditation, connecting with your being, and taking out time to breathe.
Alafia Site Map