THE RISKS OF DIVIDED IDENTITIES IN AFRICA: THE SOCIO-CULTURAL CONTEXT OF STIGMATIZATION OF MENTAL ILLNESS VICTIMS AMONG YORUBA-SPEAKING COMMUNITIES

The risks associated with divided identities among Yoruba-speaking communities in Southwestern Nigeria highlight the complex interplay between culture and perceptions of mental illness. In the context of Yoruba communities in Southwestern Nigeria, the concept of divided identities plays a significant role in shaping perceptions and attitudes towards mental illness. The socio-cultural fabric of these communities is deeply intertwined with traditional beliefs, religious practices, and social norms that can contribute to the stigmatization of individuals suffering from mental health issues. Understanding this phenomenon requires an exploration of how cultural identity influences mental health perceptions and the implications for those affected. Using a qualitative research design, this study explores this phenomenon of Stigmatization of Mental Illness Victims due to Cultural Beliefs and Mental Health Perceptions, Impact on Help-Seeking Behavior, Social Consequences and Identity Division and Efforts towards Reducing the Stigma. This study reveals that individuals experiencing symptoms of mental illness is viewed as being fixated or cursed, leading to social ostracism. This stigmatization result in families hiding their mentally ill members due to fear of societal judgment, which further exacerbates the isolation and suffering experienced by these individuals. In conclusion the paper emphasized that stigmatization not only affects individual well-being but also disrupts family relationships and community cohesion. The study recommends that addressing these challenges requires multi-faceted approaches that incorporate education, advocacy, and community engagement concerted efforts aimed at fostering understanding and acceptance while respecting cultural context.