Group launches app to combat mental health challenge

A group that is concerned with youth mental wellbeing has unveiled an application, 'My Best Self App', which is designed to help build mental resilience among young people across Africa.

Speaking with journalists in Ilorin on Monday, the co-founder of the group, NEXAVUE, Dr. Halimat Abubakar, said that My Best Self App is a transformative solution designed by Africans to be a safe online community, connecting young people to their peers, mentors, and mental health experts.

"We provide accessibility to Mental Health Services, making it affordable and accessible to all, especially for youth mental wellbeing, helping them balance academic and extracurricular responsibilities, and effective time management and resource utilization.

"We leverage digital technologies and peer support networks to enhance youth mental wellbeing, educate on avoiding online toxicity and promoting positive interactions", she said

Dr. Abubakar said that NEXAVUE is dedicated to fostering personal growth and mental wellbeing through innovative platforms and youth engagement, connecting them with the resources and support they need.

My Best Self App Ambassador at NEXAVUE, Tunde Oniwa, in her opening address during an impactful Personal Growth and Mental Wellbeing (PGMW) event organized by the group, said that the group introduced the App to address the mental health challenges faced by young people in African communities.

She said the event centered around critical discussions on mental health education, social media literacy, policy and advocacy, and mental health support accessibility to combat stigma, bullying, and domestic violence among others and was attended by mental experts including renowned artist, Korede Bello.

"Balancing academic responsibilities with community service requires effective time management and setting priorities. It's about finding harmony between what we must do and what we love to do", she said.

The Ambassador said the group aimed to create relatable, wellness-focused content to simplify mental health messages and provide youth support in order to maintain and grow mental health awareness initiatives on digital platforms.

"This platform is designed to help build mental resilience together, the app can be accessed at www.mybestself.app/register", Tunde said.

The guest Artist at the panel event, Korede Bello said his album 'KoreDay' was inspired by deep reflections around his birthday, where he pondered life’s essential questions about purpose, health, and daily existence.

Korede emphasized the importance of mental health, and the importance of storytelling in challenging stigma and fostering open conversations about mental health and wellness.

"I am not completely well until everyone is well, my goal is to spread light, healing, and love through my music.

"There is a need for personal responsibility and our online interactions are crucial; we need to be mindful of the impact our words and actions have on others", he said.

He advocated for responsible usage and creation of a healthy online environment.

My Best Self App Ambassador, Tunde concluded the event by emphasizing the need to integrate mental health education into school curriculums. She further emphasized that we should all continue our journey towards nurturing mental well-being and fostering personal growth together via My Best Self App where you'll find many resources and support you need to thrive as a young person.

Other speakers at the event included Aisha Sambo, Emmanuel Afolabi, Rasheedat Balogun, Onyinye Ugwueke.

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