In a remarkable demonstration of how technology can foster mental well-being, a telepsychiatry platform Mindsplace, hosted its second annual Awakening Summit on October 10, coinciding with World Mental Health Day.
Themed “UNITE25: Communities Supporting Wellbeing in Crisis and Beyond,” the virtual event spotlighted the transformative role of digital communities in advancing mental health across Nigeria.
With nearly 2,000 participants joining from across the country, the summit underscored how tech-enabled peer support networks and virtual platforms are reshaping access to mental wellness resources.
Mindsplace, a pioneer in digital mental health solutions, leveraged its platform to host interactive panels, live Q&As, and real-time resource sharing, demonstrating the power of scalable, inclusive mental health ecosystems.
“Digital communities are not just support systems, they are lifelines,” said Victor Emaye, CEO of Chekker Health, during his keynote. “When someone says, ‘I’ve been there, this is how I felt, and this is what helped,’ it creates a ripple effect of empowerment and healing.”
Other speakers included mental health advocate Mary Ayuba, who addressed the stigmatisation of mental illnesses, and author Efe Obiomah, who explored the nuanced role of faith-based communities in mental health support.
Both emphasised the importance of compassion, accurate language, and storytelling as tools for collective healing.
Summit convener Eniola Bello introduced a tech-informed framework for understanding mental health, urging Nigerians to adopt precise terminology when seeking help.
“From well-being, which implies positive functioning, to mental distress, also known as common stress, mental health problems, which are significant functional impairment, and mental illness, which is severe, persistent functional impairment. Using the right language ensures people get the right support,” she explained.
The event concluded with a panel discussion moderated by Modupe Ogungbe, where speakers engaged with audience questions about building sustainable mental health ecosystems in Nigeria.
Participants left equipped with practical tools for recognising mental health challenges and fostering compassionate communities, reinforcing Mindsplace’s growing impact in normalising mental health conversations across Nigeria.
Mindsplace aims to revolutionise the way mental health services are delivered. The Awakening Summit reinforces its mission to challenge the stigma surrounding mental health, empower individuals to take control of their well-being and build a compassionate community where all are heard and understood.
