Mental health advocates turn to technology to reach African youths

SereniMind, a Nigerian health technology platform, is taking bold steps to address Africa’s growing youth mental health challenges.

It’s taking the steps through its Africa Wellness Voices Initiative, a digital advocacy campaign that is already making waves across the continent.

Within its first week, the campaign reportedly reached over 10 million people through social media engagement, with a goal of connecting 100 million Africans to mental health resources.

Founder of SereniMind and Coordinator of the initiative, Mr. Ridwan Oyenuga, said: “Young people are navigating economic stress, uncertainty, and social pressure at unprecedented levels. Technology can help bridge awareness gaps, create safe spaces for conversation, and connect individuals to support before challenges escalate.”

The initiative uses storytelling, social media, and technology to reduce stigma, promote mental well-being, and amplify youth voices, offering a critical platform for emotional support in a region where mental health resources are scarce.

Nigeria, for instance, has less than one psychiatrist per 100,000 people, highlighting the urgent need for scalable solutions.

Health experts say that technology-enabled initiatives, such as SereniMind’s Africa Wellness Voices campaign, are increasingly complementing traditional mental health care.

According to specialists, these platforms provide early emotional support and peer communities, help reduce stigma through public storytelling, and connect users to professional care when necessary.

Across Nigeria, young people are facing rising anxiety, depression, and emotional distress caused by academic pressure, economic uncertainty, and social instability. Public health observers warn that stigma and limited access to care prevent many from seeking help.

SereniMind’s digital platform is creating a safe and accessible space to address these challenges while promoting awareness and dialogue across communities.

As youth-led initiatives like Africa Wellness Voices gain traction, advocates stress that sustained investment, education, and community support will be crucial for improving mental health outcomes across Africa.