The Chairman, Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Health Services, Hon. Segun Olulade, has commiserated with the families of the late Dr. Allwell Orji, who recently committed suicide in Lagos due to alleged depression.
Olulade, who is representing Epe Constituency II in the House of Assembly, sympathized with the families of the late Medical Doctor over the loss, just as he prayed that God will console them and grant them the strength to bear the irreparable loss.
Reacting to the Orji’s untimely death, the lawmaker expressed disbelief, wondering what could have prompted the young Medical Doctor to take his own life.
He explained that depression, which was said to have been responsible for the Orji’s death should not be taken with levity. “People should know that depression is more than just a low mood. It’s a serious condition that affects your physical and mental health.
“Depression is intense feelings of sadness and other symptoms, like losing interest in things you enjoy, may last for a while. Depression is a medical illness because it affects how you feel about yourself and makes life more difficult to manage from day to day.
“Depression can be due to a number of factors including stresses which can range from mild to severe, combined with vulnerability or predisposition to depression that can result from biological, genetic or psychological factors.
“Not going out anymore; not getting things done at work/school; not doing usual enjoyable activities; relying on alcohol and sedatives; unable to concentrate; withdrawing from close family and friends are some of the symptoms of depression. So people should try and speak out when they are depressed instead of allowing it to lead them to taking their lives.
“Also, our religious leaders both in churches and mosques should start educating people about how important life is. Teachings shouldn’t be all about making riches and wealth. Religious leaders should preach how people can survive even during this period that the country is experiencing recession,” he added.
SIGNED
Hon. Segun Olulade (Epe Const. II)
Chairman, Committee on Health Services
Lagos State House of Assembly
