Bill submissionA memorandum obtained by PREMIUM TIMES, signed by the Clerk, Mr Ojo, also confirmed that the bill awaits the President’s consideration and assent “in consonance with the provisions of the Acts Authentication Act Cap.Failed attemptsSpeaking to PREMIUM TIMES, the Founder of Nigerian Mental Health, Chime Asonye, explained that after several attempts, the bill was reintroduced in 2019 and that this is the first time it’s passed by the National Assembly and forwarded to the President.It added that the bill is “an improvement from the old law as it guarantees that those receiving treatments have the right to participate in formulating their medical plans and cannot have forced treatment, seclusion, and other methods of restraint in mental health facilities.”The statement further said: “CSOs and associations working in mental health have come together to promote the passage of the Bill and help advance the country’s mental health field under the umbrella, Nigerian Mental Health, a network of mental health stakeholders, thought leaders, and organisations”.The Lancet Commission on Global Mental Health and Sustainable Development warns of increased psychological vulnerability stating that “many people who previously coped well, are now less able to cope because of the multiple stressors generated by the pandemic.”READ ALSO: Tax Credit: NNPC says N621 billion spent on 21 roads; to inject N1 trillion in second phaseA recent United Nations report also indicates that many use addictive coping strategies, including alcohol, drugs, tobacco, and online gaming.For continued free access to the best investigative journalism in the country we ask you to consider making a modest support to this noble endeavour."