The Relationship Between Depression and Socioeconomic Factors

The nation’s current socio‑economic climate may be contributing to rising depression rates

A former President of the Association of Psychiatrists of Nigeria, Prof Taiwo Obindo, recently cautioned that worsening economic hardship and increasing insecurity are driving more Nigerians toward mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression. He joined other experts who argue that, although many mental illnesses are treatable—some requiring only psychological intervention—high out‑of‑pocket healthcare costs push patients toward alternative healers, often with harmful outcomes.

Prior to Obindo’s warning, medical practitioners from the Society of Family Physicians of Nigeria (SOFPON) highlighted that seven million Nigerians live with depression, a major suicide risk factor. They called for well‑structured Primary Healthcare Centres to detect and treat depression early, before suicide attempts occur. Even without detailed research into specific causes, the socio‑political environment itself tells a compelling story. With suicide rates on the rise, authorities must heed these professionals and seek ways to address depression before it leads to self‑harm.

Today, the plight of the under‑privileged is steadily worsening, with many sleeping on less than a survival diet. The unemployment crisis has left a generation of graduates jobless. Impoverished individuals are a major risk group for depression, and experts say depression is the most common reason for suicide. Thus, the nation’s present socio‑economic environment could be a predisposing factor for both depression and suicide.

Emotional and financial stress, pervasive poverty, and hopelessness are widespread—from the North to the South. Reported suicide cases, including those involving individuals who self‑inflict harm, are increasing. Other contributing factors include underlying mental disorders such as schizophrenia, excessive alcoholism, and drug abuse. Schizophrenia presents with hallucinations, inner voices, disordered thinking, irrational fears, and emotions that seem out of tune with reality.

Hard drug use—particularly Indian hemp, cocaine, and methamphetamine—is common in society, with adverse effects ranging from depression to suicide. Manic depression, an emotional seesaw oscillating between exhilarating highs and devastating lows, is cited as a reason for widespread street insanity. Yet neither society nor key government agencies appear to be addressing this malaise. Nigeria is becoming a place where many once‑taboo behaviors now occur routinely, including deliberate self‑harm. Reports of suicide involving Nigerians have shifted from occasional incidents to a disturbing trend.

Fortunately, advances in science and medicine offer hope that many mental patients can lead normal, productive lives, and that suicide victims can be helped if reached early. Depression, a leading cause of suicide, is treatable. Therefore, we urge all authorities to rehabilitate mentally challenged individuals who roam the streets and to address the constraints that trigger suicidal thoughts among our citizens.