Ikoro Forum

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MENTAL HEALTH

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This was an online symposium organized by Sr. Dr. Christiana Idika DMMM on the 25th of October 2024. The event was hosted by IKORO FORUM e.V. Berlin and brought together experts to explore mental health challenges from a diaspora perspective, with a focus on cultural perceptions, stigma, and practical approaches to healing and support.

In line with the WHO Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013–2030, mental health was defined as more than just the absence of illness—it encompasses individual well-being and effective functioning. Mental health issues can affect anyone, triggered by stress, trauma, or environmental factors. Many people, including those of Igbo origin, often live with conditions like anxiety, depression, and addiction without recognizing them, leading to strained relationships, aggressive behaviors, or social withdrawal.

Cultural beliefs continue to shape how mental health is perceived and addressed. For many Nigerians and Africans, mental illness is often attributed to spiritual or supernatural causes, prompting them to seek help from traditional or religious healers rather than combining these with professional mental health care. This delay in seeking appropriate help is further compounded by stigma and lack of awareness.

The symposium aimed to open a dialogue and deepen understanding by asking key questions:

  • What are the common triggers and signs of mental distress?
  • Who is most at risk?
  • How do we overcome stigma in African communities?
  • When and where should one seek help?

The discussion addressed topics such as:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Addictions (chemical and behavioral)
  • Trauma

Panelists included:

  • Purissima Emelda Egbekpalu
  • Nnamdi Nwaebube Ijere
  • Chidozie Nwafor
  • Micheal Nnaji
  • Christiana Calice Matris Idika (Moderator)

    The recording of the panel discussion is as shown below.

DIGNITY IN LABOUR IN THE COGNO-NORMATIVE EPISTEMOLOGY OF NDIGBO IN AN ERA OF FRAUD AND CRIMINALITY

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This was an online symposium organized by Sr. Dr. Christiana Idika DMMM on 23rd September 2023. The event brought together scholars and participants to explore the enduring values of dignity in labor within the Igbo cultural framework, especially in a time marked by rising fraud and criminality.

Dignity in labor is a core aspect of the Igbo value system, emphasizing hard work, self-reliance, and the pursuit of excellence. In contemporary society—where fraudulent practices are prevalent—this ideal becomes even more vital as a moral compass and a source of personal integrity.

Among the Igbo people, primarily located in southeastern Nigeria, there is a longstanding tradition of honoring labor and productivity. This ethos is captured in their Cogno-Normative Epistemological expressions such as:
“Aka ajaaja na ebute onu nmanu nmanu” (hard work brings prosperity) and
“Onye ruo, o rie” (he who works, eats).

These proverbs reflect the cultural disdain for idleness and dependency. In traditional Igbo society, relying on others for sustenance was often viewed as a sign of weakness and a loss of dignity. This theme is also reflected in Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart, through the contrasting lives of Okonkwo and his father, Unoka.

By promoting hard work, dignity in labor instills pride, purpose, and a sense of fulfillment. However, the growing acceptance of dishonest wealth poses a threat to this value system. Strengthening this ethical ideal is essential for building a resilient and morally grounded society.

The panel discussion during the symposium engaged deeply with these questions, highlighting the relevance of this issue not just in Nigeria but globally—especially in capitalist economies where value is often tied more to profit than to ethics.

Here is the recording of the panel discussion moderated by Sr. Dr Christiana Idika DMMM

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