Mental Health In Transit

In October 2023, on World Mental Health Day, the first chapter of an impactful initiative was written. Mental Health in Transit was conceived out of a pressing need to address the mental health gaps in underserved communities, especially in Nigeria. This unique initiative brings mental and physical healthcare to the people who need it most, directly at their workplaces and communities.

The Vision Behind Mental Health in Transit

For many Nigerians, accessing quality mental health services remains a challenge, exacerbated by societal stigma and limited resources. Recognizing these barriers, Pharm. Adekunle Adeleke, a compassionate healthcare professional and advocate for accessible healthcare, founded Mental Health in Transit.

Adeleke envisioned a program that would meet people where they are—whether they are bus drivers navigating Lagos’s busy streets, market traders managing bustling stalls, or cleaners ensuring a safe environment for others. The goal was simple yet profound: to promote mental and physical well-being in underserved communities.

The First Milestone: Biode Motor Park Outreach

The inaugural outreach of Mental Health in Transit took place at Biode Motor Park, Ojota, a hub for commuters and workers in Lagos. This event, held in partnership with Fidson Healthcare PLC and the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria-Young Pharmacists Group (PSN-YPG), Lagos Chapter, marked the first step in turning the vision into reality.

Key highlights of the outreach included:

Health Checks: Over 250 individuals, including women, traders, bus drivers, and cleaners, benefited from free blood pressure and blood sugar tests.

Free Medications: Essential medications were distributed to those in need, addressing immediate health concerns.

Community Impact: The outreach empowered individuals with knowledge about their health, fostering a culture of preventive care.

This outreach wasn’t just about numbers; it was about stories. A bus driver who discovered his high blood pressure learned the importance of routine checks. A mother balancing work and home received the care she had delayed for years. These stories exemplify the transformative power of community healthcare initiatives.

About the Pioneer: Pharm. Adekunle Adeleke

As a practicing pharmacist and a passionate advocate for health equity, Pharm. Adekunle Adeleke is no stranger to addressing healthcare challenges in Nigeria. His work with PSN-YPG Lagos Chapter has been instrumental in leading grassroots health campaigns.

Adeleke’s motivation stems from his belief that mental health is as critical as physical health. He understands that for many, access to healthcare is often hindered by location, time, or stigma. By bringing healthcare to motor parks, markets, and other underserved areas, Adeleke is reshaping the way healthcare is delivered.

“Mental health should not be a privilege,” Adeleke says. “It is a necessity, and through Mental Health in Transit, we aim to bring that necessity to everyone.”

Looking Ahead: The Future of Mental Health in Transit

Mental Health in Transit is just getting started. Inspired by its inaugural success, the initiative aims to expand its reach across Nigeria, offering more services and impacting more lives. Plans include mental health workshops, counseling sessions, and partnerships with organizations that share the vision of accessible healthcare.

Join the Journey

Mental Health in Transit invites individuals, organizations, and healthcare professionals to join this movement. Whether through volunteering, sponsorship, or advocacy, there’s a place for everyone in the journey to create a healthier, more inclusive society.

As Mental Health in Transit continues its journey, it remains a testament to what can be achieved when passion meets purpose. Pharm. Adekunle Adeleke and his team are proving that change is possible, one community at a time.

For more information or to support this initiative:

Instagram: @mentalhealthintransit

Email: mentalhealthintransit@gmail.com

As Mental Health in Transit continues its journey, it remains a testament to what can be achieved when passion meets purpose. Pharm. Adekunle Adeleke and his team are proving that change is possible, one community at a time.