Comparative Analysis of the Legal Approach to Mental Health in Nigeria and Netherlands

Abstract

Awareness of mental health is gradually gaining prominence around the globe as many people are beginning to speak up. Some persons suffering from these illnesses have reduced their encounters into books which have further been translated into movies and plays. Attention to mental health is now on the rise as Non-Governmental Organizations NGOs) are supporting the cause, laws, and policies are being put in place to promote mental wellbeing. The work brought about the enlightenment of the legal approach to mental health in Nigeria and the Netherlands, to ensure that more people are well-informed and aware of how the wrong attitude to mental health can pose a great challenge to the cause, and to adopt a more advanced and working system for a better mental health approach in Nigeria. The paper adopted the doctrinal method of research and made use of primary and secondary sources of materials. The legal approach to mental health in Nigeria is developing slowly as there is a considerable distance in the level of awareness, response, and treatment of mental health and wellbeing of most people in Nigeria. The paper concluded that there is a need for mental health policies in Nigeria to be in line with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines especially the creation of mental health courts and adequate budgetary allocation for mental health facilities and service providers. It is recommended that for Nigeria to guarantee the highest standard of mental and physical well-being for its populace, the WHO guidelines must be adhered to.