By Happy New Month, Lagos.
We made it not just with breath in our lungs, but with stories we haven’t told, strength we didn’t know we had, and battles we’re still healing from silently.
This is your monthly reminder that your mental health is not a luxury. It is a NECESSITY!
🌱 Your Brain Needs More Than Hustle
We know Lagos moves fast. From 6 a.m. BRT bus queues at Oshodi to 10 p.m. traffic in Agege, we’re all just trying to survive. But survival is not the same as living.
This month, give your mind the oxygen it deserves. Here are some tips;
- Even if you’re chasing 3 jobs Get adequate sleep.
- Choose Water over Caffeine, your brain is 75% water, not coffee.
- Expose yourself to Daily sunlight for 15 minutes of it can lift your mood significantly.
- Master the act of Talking to someone, silence doesn’t always signify strength.
🧠 Lagos Stress is Real and Measurable
Medical studies show that chronic urban stress, like the one we face in Lagos daily, increases the body’s cortisol levels, the stress hormone which can lead to:
- Increased blood pressure.
- Higher risk of anxiety and depression.
- Weakened immune system.
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
So if your heart races just at the sound of a danfo conductor shouting “Oshodi last one!”, you’re not alone, your nervous system is just tired.
❤️ Emotional First Aid is Allowed
This new month, try a few of these mental hygiene practices:
- Unfollow stress triggers on social media.
- Keep a gratitude note beside your bed.
- Say no even to good things, if they drain you.
- Book that therapy session (or talk to a trusted friend who listens without judgment).
- Cry if you need to crying is not a sign of weakness, tears are the brain’s detox.
💌 A Word to the Strong Ones
To the person in Surulere who’s smiling but sinking…
To the father in Mowe-Ibafo who never rests…
To the girl in Lekki trying to hold everyone together…
This new month, let someone hold you too.
🌼 Dear Lagosians, This Month:
- Choose peace over pressure
- Choose healing over hustle
- Choose yourself, not just your work
Because no matter how busy life gets, your mental health is the engine.
And without the engine, even the finest car in Chevron won’t move.
Happy New Month.
Take care of your mind. Take care of your life.
Because you’re made for more than just survival.
