Mrs. Oyelade
With the level of harrowing poverty in Nigeria, many Nigerians are left in the lurch by their political leaders. The hunger is torturous. The miserable and agonizing condition of citizens have hit the rooftop. The cause of this untold penury is not far fetched.
The handwriting on the wall is very clear even to the blind. Today, both the high and mighty are affected. No one is spared, exempted or immune to the fallouts of leadership failure. In this interview with Mrs. Joyce Oyelade, a U.S-based Registered Nurse with over 35 years working experience, in a book she authored, “Gross Darkness: Winning The Battle Against Depression”, advised Nigerians to seek biblical solutions to the current ugly economic state of affairs, since the arms of man have failed.
The current hunger- induced (EndBadGovernment Protest) is not peculiar to Nigeria. All over different regions of the world, protest is going on. In, UK, in Bangladesh, and other countries, because of leadership failure and other reasons. In Nigeria, my country, beyond the nation – wide protest, there is after- protest effects on the mental well-being of the people. Ultimately, depression has started creeping in. When you listen to people in the television, radio and the newspapers, you will see frustration and sorrows deep seated inside of them. These mental states are steps to depression. Even before this government came on board, right from 2015, the number of suicide was on the increase, we saw people jumping into the lagoon in Lagos, we saw people taking their life via poison, hanging themselves, and other means. Records have it that most of these suicide cases were out of deprivation. This matter in question is expected to surge if the people see no light to this end in practical terms. The need for sound decisions to turn things around is urgent than ever. The leaders must do things right.
Your take in Nigeria’s current economic miseries.
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In your book, you outlined some escape routes out of depression
Yes, I did. You see, positive thinking, being careful of what you wish for yourself as well as one’s ability to guide his/her thought processes are panacea to a stable mental health. In my book, I advised people not to aggravate the pains of others amidst this current economic deprivation. People must be careful to guide their thought as depression is far beyond what we see, physically. I say this because, hunger and poverty rank among starting points of depression such that, if not addressed at that time, it can lead to depression and death. Remember no country progresses when the people are depressed.
Meanwhile, dealing with depression, first, we must note that depression is like a big cloud that covers up our happiness and makes life sad and dark. Sometimes we can feel good one day and the next day we wake up feeling upset for no reason. But if we change some things in our lives, and alter our perspective, we can make the cloud go away and turn the day around.
Now some of the solutions I highlighted in my book are: You (everyone) must be filled with joy. The word of God says, “Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again: Rejoice. (Phi.4:4). We must cultivate a sense of happiness. This can help you ward off negative thoughts and emotions. The rest can be found in the book.
Secondly, we must be responsible to people around us. Again, Phi. 4:5 says, “Let your gentleness be evident to all”. It’s important to be attentive and receptive to others when you are experiencing feeling of depression. More so, we must be prayerful. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7), the Word of God says.
In addition, we must control our thoughts. “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8). “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5).
More importantly, there is need to follow our spiritual leaders. Only the genuine ones. This is very important because they tell us the mind of God at any condition we find ourselves. What kills people slowly is when nobody talks to them at that particular point of need. Talking with one another gives a depressed person a sense of worth and belonging. But in the absence communication, some people may give up because they feel rejected and dejected.
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8). “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5), says the word of God.
I won’t forget to remind us that we must be contented with what God has given us. This means finding happiness and comfort in the present. Be grateful for what you got. Look at the positive side of life and remain optimistic. Be positive minded in all you do. Have a positive attitude, even when everything seems to go south, remain firm, resolute, resilient and preserve. Let God see your faith very strong. With these, while others are crying, you are smiling and moving forward. The rest are in the book.
Over the years, you have been in the vanguard of helping people overcome the challenges of depression. Why did you choose this path?
Well, I spent years studying and researching on why people just take their life. Others just die out of challenges of life, when those ugly conditions would have been managed. So having gathered knowledge and coupled with my profession and personal experiences, I was moved to offer help in diverse ways to people in state of depression as well as to people who are not yet at that level.
For instance, hunger and poverty rank among other starting points of depression such that, if not addressed at that time, it can lead to another stage and continues until it gets to a state of depression. So, people at different times have issues that need to be addressed. We must offer solutions in tangible and intangible forms (depending on the specific needs so as to advert depression and death. That is what we are advocating for.
With the resources God has given us, we must be kind enough to use them to help humanity, because we know that there is nothing a man/woman has that was not given to him/ her. Remember, the greatest investment is impacting on humanity. There are persons today who cannot finish the wealth God gave them, but they don’t extend hands of fellowship to the indigents. And of what need is it, if we don’t improve the life of people here on earth? We all know that we can’t take material blessings to heaven or hell. We must remember too, that the state of people’s health and records of incessant deaths in the country affect the overall economy. This is a reminder to the government. No country progresses, when the people are depressed.
Tell us more about what inspired this book ‘Gross Darkness: Winning, The Battle Against Depression”?
Honestly, if you are altruistic, you will do anything to help people out of poverty. You can start little by offering help like food, material gifts, empowerment/ jobs, and any other help that would minimize or erase the possibility of depression and take away thought of suicide from people.
Often times, we think depression is as a result of hardship and other forms of economic deprivation, but it’s beyond that. Depression can emerge from a multitude of factors, with one such cause being the experience of death or a loss of a valuable. As a personal testament, I found myself spiraling into a deep state of depression when I tragically lost my beloved father. Throughout this harrowing journey, I encountered and traversed through all the stages of grief and mourning, grappling with immense sorrow and despair. The weight of my father’s death was so profound that it manifested itself physically. My appetite dwindled and my body struggled to adapt to the painful reality that I would never have the privilege of seeing my father’s face or hearing his voice again.
Among the various causes of depression is caused by disconnection from your creator and absence of sense of purpose in life. It is a battle that takes place in the spiritual realm. When one struggles to communicate with God or see reasons for being alive, they feel dejected and depression can set it. (For those who knows the importance) of living a purpose- driven life. When people feel they are being abandoned and forsaken by God, when people see no essence of being alive, or having confusion about their purpose in life, and other issues that have nothing to do with physical wellbeing, it can lead to depression. This kind of depression can be very devastating because if it results in suicide, people won’t understand the reason because the person in question maybe financially and materially stable. Yet, people would wonder what may have gone wrong. In a time like this, we should be mindful of one another. We should not be selfish. What affects one should affect everyone. The level of hopelessness in the country is alarming, but we are duty bound to spread love, and help the weak ones amongst us. Remember, he that giveth to the poor, lends to his or her marker. But most importantly, if you can’t help the poor, don’t add to their sorrows.
How can one avert depression or suicide?
May God help you to find Godly people around.. Seeing positive- minded people who can fill you with the physical and spiritual therapy and material aids like foods is a testimony. Look for good books, good music and be filled with joy. Attend educational, pro- life, pro-destiny and spirit- lifting programs. Control your thoughts. Be contented with what you have and keep a positive mindset.
Going back to our roots and source – God for direction, and other solutions to desire is the only way forward, and don’t forget to enmesh yourself in the written words of God and be prayerful as you follow your spiritual leaders. So, to avoid depression in this season, we must turn to God. I also encourage anyone who has more, to help those in need. Put a smile on someone’s face. It goes a long way.
Recently, you returned from America to feed indigents people in Ifo- Ogun state. What informed this act of kindness?
I’ am a minister of the gospel of Christ. Jesus tells us to give and help the poor in the society. Aside this commandment, common sense should tell everyone with financial and material substances to help the needy around you. Unless such fellow is doesn’t know God. We fed over 300 people including Christians and Muslims, even those with religion neutrality. It’s a yearly program which includes empowerment of ministers of the gospel. You can’t be hungry while preaching to the people. But most critically, Nigerians are passing through hell at the moment. It is obvious even to the unborn that economy is very bad. Many people have regretted being Nigerians. So, let’s help one another at this painful time. And if we don’t do, God won’t take it light with those who have but chose to close their palms.
As a nurse with over 35 years of experience in the United States, what is your observations & difference between nursing profession in Nigeria & the United States.
The difference is conspicuously seen in kind of training and education offered by the institutions. Scope of practice, available opportunities, and the overall perception and recognition of the nursing profession also makes the difference.
In the United States, there is a greater demand for nurses due to the larger population and more complex healthcare system. This leads to a wider range of job opportunities in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and research institutions. In contrast, Nigeria faces a shortage of nurses, resulting in a higher nurse-to-patient ratio and limited employment options. This scarcity of nursing professionals can place a heavier workload and increased responsibility on individual nurses in Nigeria.
Practicing Nursing in U.S, is interesting because you have every state- of -the -art equipment, facilities and other resources you need to work with. The motivation is there, the encouragement and reward is there, plus insurance. Not because Nigeria nurses are indolent, but because they have a functional system in place that prioritizes healthcare delivery for their citizens unlike what we have here.
Understanding these distinctions is essential for aspiring nurses and healthcare professionals to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities present in each country’s healthcare system. Furthermore, the perception and recognition of the nursing profession also differ between the two countries.
In the United States, nursing is widely regarded as a prestigious and respected profession, with nurses often being seen as crucial members of the healthcare team. This recognition is reflected in the competitive salaries and benefits offered to nurses, as well as the numerous opportunities for professional development and advancement. In Nigeria, while nursing is still highly valued, there may be a lesser degree of recognition and appreciation for the contributions nurses make to patient care. This can result in lower salaries, limited career advancement opportunities, and a potential lack of resources and support for professional growth. A notable difference lies in the educational pathways for aspiring nurses. In all, our nurses are hardworking. Remember, to practice as a Nigerian trained nurse in the US, you must have graduated from an accredited school and will have to pass the NCLEX (National council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses.
As a certified Healthcare Administrator, how would you revamp the epileptic healthcare system in Nigeria, if given the opportunity?
(Smiles) If I were appointed to revamp the Healthcare system in Nigeria, I would implement a comprehensive overhaul of the epileptic healthcare system.
This would involve a multi-faceted approach that addresses various issues plaguing the current system, such as lack of access to quality care, limited resources, inadequate training for healthcare professionals, and insufficient public awareness about the danger of downgraded healthcare system. One of the first steps I would take is to increase funding for chronic diseases treatment and research. This would allow for the expansion of healthcare facilities equipped to diagnose and treat such diseases like Epilepsy, leprosy, Tuberculosis, organ infections, and other chronic diseases as well as the procurement of necessary medications and equipment. Additionally, I would work to improve accessibility to these facilities, especially in rural areas where healthcare services are often scarce. Furthermore, I would prioritize training programs for healthcare professionals to ensure they are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage such deadly diseases and compete favorably.
This would involve providing ongoing education and resources to healthcare workers, as well as implementing standardized protocols for diagnosing and treating chronic ailments. Overall, my goal to revamp the healthcare system would be to ensure that we reverse the ugly trend of ‘Japa’ by making this noble profession attractive. Because it’s a shame that we’re contributing to the economy of foreign countries while our home facilities are in a sorry state.
By addressing funding, accessibility, education, and awareness, I believe we can make significant strides in improving the quality of care for those affected by this condition. We shall ensure that the right persons are in the right positions if we must deliver on mandate. Moreso, primary health education must be a compulsory subject for every student till post primary school level. We shall work hand in gloves with NAFDAC, SON, and other regulatory agencies to halt substandard products in the medical profession. This is imperative because trust and confidence deficit in Nigeria’s healthcare system was as a result of plethora of bogus drugs and other hospital products and services. Regular health enlightenment shall be our top priority as well. In no distance time, we shall not only halt capital flight, but attract medical tourists.
Tell us about your Home Health care business and its impact to humanity?
I started the Home Healthcare Business two years ago because I wanted a company that can provide exceptional care to patients in the comfort of their homes. Due to shortage of staff hospitals and nursing facilities are not able to provide adequate care for their patients. So we want to deliver the best healthcare services to the people at their very respective residents especially the aged among us.
Your message to depressed people in Nigeria today?
First, I must say that I understand the plight of the people in Nigeria. Though it’s not easy anywhere, but then, some climes are better off because in such places, their socioeconomic and political leaders show empathy. Any country where citizens and residents are relatively happy with little or no protests against the government, it is a sign that the political leaders are doing what is right for the people. Such leaders ensure that public resources especially financial resources are prudently and judiciously managed. So, people feel a sense of belonging. They don’t feel detached from the scheme of things, as it’s the case in many countries especially in Africa. It’s a good thing people are waking up to know what is their rights.
Be that as it may, I want to offer words of encouragement to those who may be struggling with feelings of depression or hopelessness right now, urging them to stay strong and not lose hope. Remember that brighter days are ahead and that there is always support available to help you through tough times. Keep pushing forward and know that you are not alone in your struggles. You have the strength within you to overcome this and come out stronger on the other side.
