Trigger Warning: This episode contains references to drug use, addiction, mental health struggles, and loss. Please take care while listening.

In honour of Men’s Mental Health Month, we invited Mobolaji to share his personal journey through substance addiction and recovery. In this candid conversation, he recounts how experimentation with cannabis led to a downward spiral—losing his father, his job, and experiencing severe manic episodes, including hearing voices. His story underscores the importance of honest dialogue about men’s emotional wellbeing and the possibility of healing.

If you or someone you know is facing similar challenges, the following resources can help you take the first steps toward recovery:

Federal & Tertiary Hospitals (Addiction & Mental Health Units)

1. Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Lagos
2. Aro Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Abeokuta, Ogun State
3. University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan
4. Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Enugu
5. Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Benin City

Private & NGO Rehabilitation Centres

1. CADAM Rehabilitation Facility, Epe, Lagos State
2. Tranquil and Quest Behavioral Health, Lekki, Lagos
3. Synapse Services, Abuja & Lagos
4. Lighthouse Rehab Centre, Lekki & Ikeja, Lagos

Helplines & Peer Support

1. Synapse Services: 08152882329
2. Narcotics Anonymous Nigeria: peer‑led 12‑step meetings
3. Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (MANI): online peer support and referrals at mentallyaware.org

Online & Self‑Help Resources

1. Rehabs.Africa Nigeria Directory: https://rehabs.africa/location/nigeria/
2. “Substance Use and Misuse in Nigeria” (NCBI e‑book chapter): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64815/
3. Mayo Clinic – Drug Addiction Guide: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/drug-addiction/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20365113

Taking Your Next Steps

1. Reach out by phone or in person to one of the hospitals or centres listed above.
2. Involve trusted friends or family members in your plan—recovery is easier with support.
3. Consider whether inpatient (residential) or outpatient programmes best suit your needs.
4. After initial treatment, connect with peer‑support groups (NA, MANI) for ongoing encouragement.

You are not alone. Help is available—please take that first step today.

What Is Your Story? is Africa's leading storytelling podcast. We celebrate individuality through powerful personal narratives. Each episode gives our guests the space to reflect on the defining moments that shaped them — emotionally, culturally, and professionally.

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