ABUJA, July 5 (Reuters) - Nigeria's Emeka Adindu says salsa saved his life.
Growing up in a country with deep-rooted stigma against mental health issues, Adindu, 35, found solace in the popular Latin dance as he battled abuse, depression and suicidal thoughts.
"Salsa was the only thing that could make me smile all those days that I was battling, fighting with my demon," he says.
A 2021 UNICEF report shows one in six Nigerians aged between 15 and 24 are depressed, anxious or have other mental health issues.
Medical professionals say the stigma associated with mental health in Nigeria's culturally conservative society makes matters worse.
Persons:
Adindu, Princess Solomon unwound, Abraham Achirga, Vining Ogu, Angela Ukomadu, Bhargav Acharya, Devika
Organizations:
UNICEF, Thomson
Locations:
ABUJA, Abuja