On July 2, 2025, Social Action Nigeria, in collaboration with Kebetkache Women Development and Resource Centre, held a special training program for the Visually Impaired Cluster in Rivers State. The event, themed “Coping with Depression and Trauma for the Visually Impaired,” was organized in response to growing concerns about the neglect faced by persons with visual impairments. This neglect that has increasingly led to isolation, emotional distress, and in some cases, suicidal ideation.

The meeting began with an opening remark by Dr. Prince Edegbuo, Senior Programmes Officer of Social Action. In his address, Dr. Edegbuo welcomed and appreciated participants for attending, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities are not only heard but also seen.

“Losing one’s sight is a traumatic experience,” he said. “In an environment where support systems are minimal or non-existent, the psychological impact can be devastating. This training is our way of saying “you are not alone, and we care.”

The keynote session was delivered by Mr. ThankGod Ocheho, Head of Psychology at the Neen Foundation. In his presentation, Mr. Ocheho stressed the importance of self-love as a first step in navigating life with disability.

“Challenges are inevitable,” he said. “But learning how to live with them and still find joy in living is key to emotional well-being.”

According to the National Bureau of Statistics and UNICEF’s National Disabilities Survey (2018), Nigeria has between 25–30 million persons living with disabilities—roughly 12–15% of the national population. Of this number, an estimated 5.75 to 6.9 million are visually impaired, representing nearly 23% of the total PWD population.

Yet, despite these significant figures, individuals with visual impairments often face extreme marginalization sometimes even from family members. This isolation fuels depression and trauma, with limited access to tailored mental health support.

The training session aimed to address these critical gaps by:

✔️Identifying signs and symptoms of depression in visually impaired persons

✔️Introducing coping mechanisms suited to their lived realities

✔️Promoting access to inclusive mental health resources and therapies

✔️Teaching self-help techniques and encouraging peer support

✔️Building resilience through guided psychological exercises

The session provided a rare and valuable platform for participants to open up about their personal struggles ranging from betrayal and rejection to economic hardship and emotional pain. Participants spoke candidly about how their reality has shaped their mental health and daily lives.

In response, Mr. Ocheho offered words of encouragement and assured the group of follow-up training sessions, including discussions on income-generating opportunities tailored to their capabilities.

The session ended with a heartfelt vote of thanks from Esther Ekine, Team Lead of the Visually Impaired Cluster. She expressed deep appreciation to Social Action and Kebetkache for acknowledging their challenges and offering a lifeline through knowledge, empathy, and empowerment.

“Today gave us hope,” she said. “We are grateful to be seen and heard and to be reminded that our lives still hold value and purpose.”

Social Action Nigeria remains committed to advancing the rights and well-being of marginalized groups, including persons with disabilities. This training session marks a crucial step in ensuring no one is left behind in the pursuit of dignity, justice, and inclusion.