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Mrs. Abimbola Fashola (R) receiving a Certificate of Attendance from Hon. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire (L) during Workshop on Depression in Women.


Mrs. Abimbola Fashola (M) presenting a Certificate of Attendance to Mrs. Aderonke Ibikunle (L) during the Workshop on Depression in Women.

Speeches

Feb 24, 2010 - 2-Day Workshop On Depression In Women

In the past few decades, the challenges facing women all over the world particularly in the developing countries have continued to increase and also assume complex dimension. These challenges are manifested in various aspects of the life of a woman ranging from health, economic well being as well as in the demanding nature of her roles as wife, mother and in most cases the bread winner of the family.

These challenges which many women are finding difficult to overcome account largely for the high number of women suffering from depression compared to men. Unlike most disorders however, depression still remains under-recognised, undiagnosed and therefore not being given serious attention that it deserves.

It is against this background that this workshop is being organised by the Lagos State government through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. It is a demonstration of the commitment of the State Government to the total well being of its workforce and special sensitivity to gender specific issues.

Given the crucial role women play in the society particularly in sustaining the family, the need to protect us against depression and its adverse consequences cannot be overemphasised.

As it is with other health challenges such as HIV/AIDS, breast and cervical cancers, public awareness is key to addressing the issue of depression particularly in this part of the world where the level of understanding of depression is very low and in most cases characterised by misconceptions. This forum will enhance public understanding and perception of the causes, symptoms, risk factors, prevention as well as treatment and management of depression.

My dear sisters, depression is a serious condition that can affect our social life, family relationships, career and sense of self worth and purpose. We must learn to manage stress and be positive in our thinking and expectations irrespective of the challenges we might be experiencing.

I pray that you find these 2-days lecture informative. Please, ensure that you share the knowledge and experience of this workshop with other women within your household, neighbourhood and associations.

I thank you for your kind attention, God bless you all.

Her Excellency
Mrs. Abimbola Fashola
First Lady of Lagos State