In Nigeria, it is still far too common for pharmacies and local chemists to prescribe sleeping pills at the slightest complaint of stress or insomnia. A patient walks in, mentions difficulty sleeping, and immediately receives medication. But is this truly healthcare, or are we overlooking something deeper?

Sleep Is Not the Only Form of Rest

Rest goes beyond sleep. Research shows that over 30% of Nigerians experience sleep-related issues, yet many of these cases are linked to underlying mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety. For someone struggling with depression, sleep alone may not restore energy. They may wake up feeling even more exhausted, because the root cause has not been addressed.

The Missing Link: Mental Health in Primary Care

Insomnia and fatigue can be symptoms of serious mental health challenges, including depression and suicidal thoughts. Prescribing sleep medication without exploring these underlying issues does not solve the problem—it risks masking it. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria has fewer than 300 psychiatrists serving a population of over 200 million, highlighting the urgent need for integrated mental health services in primary care.

Why Collaboration Matters

Many hospitals lack dedicated mental health counselors, but collaboration is possible. Healthcare providers can partner with organizations, therapists, and mental health professionals to ensure patients receive holistic care. Sometimes, the patient spending extra time with a doctor is not describing physical symptoms at all—they are silently asking for someone to listen. Redirecting them to the right support system could save lives.

A Call to Action

It is time to treat mental health as a core component of primary healthcare in Nigeria. Patients deserve access to therapy, counseling, and awareness programs alongside physical treatment. By doing so, we reduce reliance on quick fixes like sleeping pills and instead provide long-term solutions that improve overall well-being.