People with mental health challenges, as in other areas of West Africa, are found in Nigeria, abandoned and wandering the streets. 90 patients per year have crossed the border into Benin. They are seeking treatment from Association Saint Camille (ASC). It has been a goal for years to bring ASC to them! Construction is underway and will ultimately treat at least 200 patients per day. The construction will mimic the layout of the many other ASC clinics that have proven successful over the years.
The problem is a lack of sufficient free or minimal-cost services for those with mental illness and other conditions, such as epilepsy. People with these conditions are shunned from society. Due to stigma, they are often abandoned by families and are found homeless or chained. By expanding into the Lagos region close to the Benin border, patients will not have to travel for services, and more local people will have access to treatment.
The ASC model will provide housing, meals, education on mental health, and information about treatment options. Counseling, medications, general physical care, and job rehabilitation services will be provided. Building the clinic is the first step in bringing dignity to these members of the local community. This facility, built on 2.4 hectares (6 acres) of land, will serve approximately 200 patients in residential treatment per day.
The potential long-term impact will reunite hundreds of people with their families. Patients in recovery are always offered job training opportunities appropriate to their community. Over time, outpatient services and general health care will be added for the community at large.
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