Here in Naija, it can be easy for us to think of depression as a western illness. After all, most of us are smiling and getting on with life despite all the challenges, from no light to bad roads and a crazy dollar exchange rate. In fact, if we were to list all the problems in our country we would be here all day. Yet, Nigerians press on, choosing to believe that tomorrow will be better.

But what happens when you can’t see a better future. When the world becomes dark and cold and there is no respite for your pain. You feel worthless and hopeless and there is no joy in living again. This is a taste of what depression feels like. It is a serious mood disorder that when left untreated can ultimately lead to death by suicide.

It would appear that this is what happened to a Facebook user named Ariyo Olanrewaju Taiwo. The young man from Ado-Ekiti reportedly committed suicide after posting a cry for help on the social network. His death has sparked the debate about depression in Nigeria, as it still seems to be a taboo subject in some areas.

Ariyo wrote:

Only have a few hours to live….. feeling depressed but not scared of death…. Wish I can make things right again but NO….. it is over……



Unfortunately, his intentions were not taken seriously, and one friend even thought he was joking. Ariyo sadly went on to take his life, as confirmed by a post by another user, Ifemide Oluwakemisola Arikeade:



Depression in Nigeria is real and affecting us here just like any country in the world. It is not a weakness but an illness. If you are suffering, it is not your fault. Please seek help. If you know someone who seems to be at risk of depression or suicide, please talk to them and listen to what they say. Refer them to a doctor or counselor. Don’t take it lightly; you could be saving a life.

http://www.livehealthymag.com/depression-in-nigeria-man-commits-suicide-posting-facebook/

Very sad. R.I.P