GWIHR embarked on a transformative advocacy visit to the Abia State Primary Healthcare Development Agency in Umuahia. Our mission was clear: to champion the integration of mental health support services into primary healthcare centers (PHCs) across Abia State, with a focus on ensuring equitable access for women who use and inject drugs—a group too often sidelined by stigma and systemic barriers
Setting the Stage for Change
Women who use and inject drugs in Abia State face profound challenges. Stigma, discrimination, and legal hurdles create formidable barriers to accessing essential healthcare and justice systems. These women are disproportionately vulnerable to HIV/AIDS, gender-based violence, and mental health disorders, yet the absence of inclusive, trauma-informed care perpetuates a cycle of poor health and social exclusion.
At GWIHR, we believe that mental health is a cornerstone of well-being. Primary healthcare centers, as the first point of contact for communities, are uniquely positioned to address these needs. Our advocacy visit aimed to forge a partnership with the Abia State Primary Healthcare Development Agency to make this vision a reality.
A Powerful Dialogue
GWIHR engaged in an interactive and heartfelt discussion with Dr. Kalu U. Kalu, the Executive Secretary of the Agency. We laid out our goal: to integrate mental health services such as counseling, screenings, and referral pathways into every PHC in Abia State. This would empower women who use and inject drugs to access care that is compassionate, accessible, and rights-based.
Dr. Kalu’s response was both encouraging and candid. He acknowledged the critical need for mental health services at the primary level, revealing that the Agency had already begun conversations on this front. However, he highlighted a significant challenge: Abia State currently has only 11 psychologists at the primary healthcare level a number far too small to meet the needs of the population. This gap underscored the urgency of our advocacy
Stepping Up with Solutions
In response, GWIHR offered a practical solution: to support the Agency by training PHC staff in basic mental health service provision and establishing robust referral linkages to specialized care. This commitment was met with enthusiasm, as Dr. Kalu expressed openness to a strategic partnership to build the state’s capacity to deliver mental health support.
Promote Mental Health Service Integration: Equip PHCs with the tools to provide counseling and screenings, enabling early intervention for mental health issues.
Enhance Health Equity: Train PHC staff in trauma-informed care to reduce stigma and create a welcoming environment for marginalized women.
Strengthen Referral Pathways: Establish formalized networks to connect women with specialized mental health services when needed.
The expected outcomes are transformative: from improved emotional well-being and reduced psychological distress to increased trust in healthcare systems and timely access to specialized care.
- Our proposed objectives for this initiative are clear:
A Vision for a Healthier Future
This advocacy visit marked a pivotal moment in our mission to break the cycle of marginalization for women who use and inject drugs. The commitment from Dr. Kalu and the Agency signals a shared vision for a more inclusive healthcare system in Abia State. By integrating mental health services into PHCs, we can address the psychological and emotional needs of vulnerable women, reduce stigma, and promote holistic well-being.
The road ahead is promising but requires action. GWIHR is ready to roll up our sleeves, working alongside the Agency to train healthcare providers and strengthen systems. Together, we can ensure that no woman is left behind in accessing the care she deserves.
Join Us in This Movement
The success of this advocacy visit is just the beginning. We invite you to join us in advocating for mental health as a fundamental right. Share this story, engage with us on social media, and support our efforts to make Abia State’s PHCs a beacon of hope and healing for all.
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GWIHR embarked on a transformative advocacy visit to the ABSPHDA
GWIHR embarked on a transformative advocacy visit to the ABSPHDA 2