Founder/CEO of Silver Cross Living Well Empowerment Foundation Ese Onemiye has called for prioritisation of mental health of caregivers, saying they deserve the same care, compassion and support they offer to others.
Onemiye expressed commitment to supporting the mental health and well-being of family caregivers across Nigeria, especially women often overlooked.
Onemiye, in a statement, said: “Every day across Nigeria, countless family members quietly step into the role of caregiver, tending to parents, spouses, children, and loved ones living with chronic illnesses. They do this not for recognition or reward, but out of love, duty, and profound commitment.
“Yet, behind their unwavering strength, many suffer in silence. They manage medications, attend clinic visits, coordinate treatments, provide emotional support, and often put their own lives on hold to care for others. They carry the physical burden, the emotional strain, and the financial sacrifice, often without training, respite, or acknowledgment.
“The true weight of caregiving is often hidden from plain sight. While caregivers pour themselves into supporting and healing others, many quietly face physical and emotional exhaustion, isolation, financial strain, anxiety, and fear.
“Women, in particular, shoulder the majority of caregiving responsibilities in Nigeria, becoming the invisible backbone of our chronic care system. They give so much, yet their needs are rarely prioritised.
“The Silver Cross Living Well Initiative believes that caregivers deserve the same care, compassion, and support they offer to others. We are committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of family caregivers across Nigeria, especially women who are too often overlooked.
“Our programmes include workforce reintegration, mental health counseling, support groups, caregiver training & education, and family wellness resources
“This November, as we recognize family caregivers month, we celebrate the unsung heroes who carry so much with so little support. We honor your devotion, your strength, your sacrifices, seen and unseen.”
