- Living in Nigeria can be stressful due to come factors like economic instability, insecurity, and the never-ending hustle
- Staying positive can help you manage your mental health in the midst of the daily challenges
- Here are 10 tips on how to maintain your sanity in Nigeria
Living in Nigeria is a unique experience but it can also be very stressful. From traffic jams that seem never-ending to economic instability, the noise pollution endured even from your house, and the day-to-day hustle can affect your mental health.
Staying positive isn't about pretending that everything is perfect; it is about finding ways to manage your mental well-being despite the challenges.
TheRadar brings you some tips to help you stay positive, even when life in Nigeria feels overwhelming.
10 tips to maintain your sanity in Nigeria
- Prioritise your peace by limiting news consumption
The news in Nigeria is often filled with stories that can raise your blood pressure, be it political drama, economic instability, or reports of insecurity. While it’s important to stay informed, overloading yourself with constant bad news can be harmful to your mental health. Try to set boundaries. Maybe check the news once a day, but not first thing in the morning. Start your day on a positive note instead, maybe with music or an uplifting podcast.
- Focus on what you can control
In Nigeria, many things can feel out of your hands, from power outages to sudden price hikes. Focusing on what you can control, however small, can help you stay grounded. Organise your personal space, set realistic goals, and focus on tasks you can accomplish. These small wins help boost your sense of control and contribute to a more positive mindset.
- Build a support system
One thing Nigerians are known for is a strong sense of community. No man is an island, especially in challenging times. Whether it’s your family, friends, or a religious community, leaning on others can significantly improve your mental health. Stay connected. Make time to check in on loved ones, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need someone to talk to. Sometimes, just venting to a friend or sharing a laugh can brighten your mood.
- Practice gratitude even for the small things
It’s easy to get caught up in what’s wrong, especially when you’re constantly facing challenges. But taking a moment to appreciate the good things, however small, can help shift your perspective. Did NEPA (DisCos) surprise you with an extra hour of light today? Did you find a less chaotic route to work? Celebrate those wins! Start or end your day by writing down three things you’re grateful for. This simple practice helps you notice the positive things, even when times are tough.
- Exercise
Exercise has been scientifically proven to improve mental health. You may not have access to fancy gyms, but that’s okay. The goal isn’t to have a perfect workout routine but to get your body moving. You could take a walk in your neighbourhood, do some stretches at home, or join a local football game with friends. These activities help release endorphins, which are natural mood boosters.
- Accept that bad days will come
One of the best ways to stay positive is to accept that not every day will be great, and that’s okay. There will be days when the hustle feels unbearable, when traffic is too much, and when everything seems to go wrong. When you’re having a tough day, remind yourself that it's just one day. Tomorrow may be better. Be kind to yourself, and don’t be afraid to take a break when needed.
- Nurture your spiritual life
For many Nigerians, spirituality is a source of comfort and hope. Whether you're religious or simply believe in a higher power, nurturing your spiritual life can provide a sense of purpose and peace. Engage in activities that connect you to your faith or spirituality, whether it’s praying, meditating, or attending religious services. Spirituality can give you perspective and strength during hard times.
- Limit social media
Social media can be a double-edged sword. While it offers connection and entertainment, it can also lead to comparison, anxiety, and unrealistic expectations. Seeing other people’s lifestyles can make you feel like you’re falling behind, especially in a country where making ends meet is a daily challenge. Set limits on how much time you spend on social media. Consider unfollowing accounts that make you feel anxious or inadequate, and instead, follow pages that inspire, educate, or make you laugh.
- Practice self-compassion
In a country where the hustle culture is celebrated, it’s easy to feel like you're not doing enough. But self-compassion means treating yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend. When you’re feeling down, avoid beating yourself up. Instead, acknowledge that you’re doing the best you can in difficult circumstances. A little self-compassion can go a long way in maintaining a positive mindset.
- Find joy in little things
Finally, don’t wait for massive successes or milestones to experience happiness. Joy can be found in small moments, like eating your favourite meal, listening to your favourite Nigerian artist, or spending time with loved ones. Make it a point to incorporate small joys into your daily life. They add up and can help you maintain a positive mindset, even when bigger challenges loom.
Staying positive in Nigeria isn't always easy, but it’s possible. It starts with recognizing the challenges you face and being proactive about how you manage your mental health.
By focusing on what you can control, nurturing your relationships, and practising gratitude, you can maintain your mental well-being and find peace, even in tough times.
8 tips to survive fuel scarcity in Nigeria
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported on tips to survive the impact of fuel scarcity in Nigeria.
Tips like Ride sharing, planning your movement, exploring alternative power sources, and working from home are tricks you can employ to survive the incessant fuel scarcity in Nigeria.