Tips to maintaining your mental well being – Shonubi

Oluwatoyin Shonubi is a family physician and mental health advocate committed to promoting a holistic approach to healthcare.

She earned her medical degree from Obafemi Awolowo University and gained early clinical experience in Nigeria, including work at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, where her passion for mental health advocacy deepened.

After relocating to Canada in 2018, she completed her Family Medicine residency at the University of Ottawa and obtained certification in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy from McMaster University. With over a decade of experience across Nigeria and Canada, she now combines clinical practice with speaking and advocacy focused on mental wellness and self-esteem. In this interview with KENNETH ATHEKAME, she spoke about the pressing mental health challenges facing Nigerians today and the critical gaps in the country’s mental health infrastructure. Excerpts:

Can you share your journey from medical school to becoming a family physician and mental health advocate?

I graduated from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife in 2010. During medical school, my psychiatry rotation fascinated me; it was the only specialty that addressed both mind and body. I realised emotional health could affect physical health and vice versa. That discovery aligned perfectly with my passion for counseling and therapy beyond just prescribing medication. In Nigeria, I practised general medicine while deepening my training in mental health. I advocated for mental wellbeing in hospitals, participated in community autism awareness programs, and spoke at religious gatherings about mental health. In 2018, I moved to University of Ottawa, Ontario to complete my family medicine residency while continuing online advocacy and speaking at community events.

What pivotal experiences inspired your focus on mental health and self-esteem building?

My interest began in medical school but grew stronger through patient interactions. I noticed how low self-esteem limits people’s social, emotional, and professional lives. Many struggles, depression, anxiety, self-sabotage stem from the belief “I am not enough.” That realisation fueled my mission to help people build self-esteem.

You’re fondly called the “self-esteem builder.” How did that come about?

I gave myself that name because I believe in the power of self-proclamation. Low self-esteem underlies many adult challenges, poor relationships, depression, anxiety, and personality struggles. By helping people value themselves, I help them reclaim their lives.

What are the most pressing mental health issues facing Nigerians today?

Depression and anxiety are widespread. Substance abuse among youth is alarming street drugs are glamorized on social media. Studies show 20–40% of students and 20.9% of young people misuse substances like cannabis, codeine, tramadol, and cough syrup. Reasons range from coping with stress to recreational use.

What gaps exist in Nigeria’s mental health infrastructure?

Services are concentrated in urban tertiary hospitals, leaving rural areas underserved. Less than 300 psychiatrists serve over 200 million people. Stigma, lack of awareness, and reliance on religious institutions delay care. There are too few psychologists, social workers, and therapists, and psychotropic medications are scarce and costly. The system emphasizes treatment over prevention, hospital care over community care, and specialists over family physicians.

How does self-esteem link to mental wellbeing?

Core beliefs shape how we see ourselves. Rejection in childhood may lead to beliefs like “I am unlovable,” causing social withdrawal, depression, or anxiety in adulthood. Low self-esteem can prevent meaningful relationships and amplify mental health challenges, whereas healthy self-esteem protects wellbeing and fosters resilience.

How can families and communities foster healthier self-esteem in young people?

It starts at home. Parents should validate children, celebrate their unique abilities, avoid comparisons, and shield them from abuse. Schools should adapt teaching to individual learning styles, enforce anti-bullying policies, and promote mental health awareness. Communities and mentors should provide guidance and create safe spaces for dialogue.

What approaches have worked best in mental health advocacy in Nigeria compared to Canada?

Social media campaigns are effective in both countries. In Canada, well-funded NGOs provide resources and awareness programs. In Nigeria, collaboration with religious leaders and grassroots initiatives like mental health services at prayer mountain retreats has been impactful in reaching people reluctant to seek hospital care.

How should schools, workplaces, and faith communities promote mental health?

Schools should integrate mental health education and support students struggling with anxiety, depression, or substance use. Workplaces should offer workshops and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). Religious leaders can partner with mental health professionals to destigmatize mental illness and reach communities directly.

What mental health challenges are unique to women and young adults in Nigeria?

Women face reproductive health-related anxiety, infertility stigma, miscarriage, and postpartum depression. Young adults deal with peer pressure, social media influences, and identity challenges. Intentional parenting, mentorship, and early professional intervention are key.

How do you maintain your own mental wellbeing?

I prioritise social support, recognise stress early, take breaks, reach out for help, and practice gratitude.

What practical steps can Nigerians take today to protect their mental health?

Embrace communal and family support; practice gratitude daily, avoid isolation—seek professional help when needed.

Your message for those struggling in silence?

You are not alone. Mental illness is treatable. Don’t isolate yourself or feel ashamed. Reach out for counseling, therapy, or psychiatric services you deserve help, and a fulfilling life is possible.