Pánsá Pánsá Podcast

What happens when the pressure to succeed collides with the weight of cultural expectations? In this robust conversation, I sat down with Mouhamadou B. Diagne, a Harvard-trained Muslim chaplain and scholar who, as a child immigrant, transitioned from not speaking English to becoming a leading voice for mental health advocacy in African immigrant communities.

Bio:

Mouhamadou Diagne immigrated to the US from Senegal as a child. Despite not initially speaking a word of English, he became fluent after only two months and distinguished himself as a high-high-achieving, engaged student. He would win the prestigious Posse Foundation Full-Tuition Leadership scholarship to study psychology and educational studies at Carleton College. While there, his work in the Chaplain’s Office led him to pursue a calling in College Chaplaincy. His first stop was pursuing a Master of Divinity at Harvard Divinity School, with a concentration in Islam and African Religions. He wrote a thesis detailing a plan for counseling Muslim African Immigrants in the United States. In the decade since graduation, Mouhamadou has held ground-breaking chaplaincy positions at Columbia and Bucknell Universities before transitioning to a career in admissions and DEI, serving as the inaugural Chief Diversity Officer at Saint Joseph’s College of Maine, and currently a Multicultural Outreach and Recruitment specialist at Fitchburg State University in MA. He recently founded his own consulting company, offering Muslim wedding and relationship counseling services.

Summary

In this conversation, Muhamadou Diagni shares his journey as a Muslim chaplain and advocate for mental health within African immigrant communities. He discusses the complexities of navigating dual identities as an African and Black individual in America, the cultural dynamics that shape these experiences, and the mental health challenges faced by African immigrants. Diagni emphasizes the importance of community support, the role of faith in mental health, and the need to break the stigma surrounding mental health issues. He advocates for greater awareness and understanding of mental health within African immigrant households, encouraging individuals to seek help and support.

Takeaways

Muhamadou Diagni emphasizes the importance of community support in navigating dual identities.

He highlights the unique mental health challenges faced by African immigrants, including acculturative stress.

The conversation addresses the cultural dynamics between African and African-American communities.

Diagni discusses the role of faith in mental health and the importance of integrating religious beliefs into counseling.

He advocates for breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in African immigrant communities.

The need for more mental health resources and awareness is stressed throughout the conversation.

Diagni shares personal experiences of navigating identity conflicts and the impact on mental health.

He encourages younger generations to seek help and prioritize mental well-being.

The conversation highlights the importance of understanding cultural differences in mental health treatment.

Diagni calls for greater empathy and solidarity among different cultural groups.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Muhamadou Diagni

02:45 Navigating Dual Identities as an Immigrant

09:52 The African vs. African-American Dynamic

12:11 Cultural Straddling: Balancing African and Black Identities

18:04 Racism Within the Muslim Community

23:28 The Intersection of Culture and Religion

30:03 Choosing Carleton College: A Personal Journey

34:44 Navigating Academic Challenges and Mental Health

40:55 Cultural Stigma and Mental Health in Immigrant Communities

52:02 Acculturative Stress and Mental Health Issues

55:16 Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health

01:00:40 Integrating Faith and Mental Health Support

01:05:46 Empowering the Younger Generation for Mental Health Advocacy

In many immigrant households, the past is never discussed but is always present in our lives. Families who crossed oceans carry their pain in silence. The child born into a new land wrestles with belonging. And when they finally speak, it’s often in different languages—culturally, emotionally, and generationally.

Today, I sit down with Safi Lynch, a therapist who understands these tensions deeply. As a child of immigrants and a mental health practitioner, she helps families make peace with the past—while taking ownership of the future.

Bio:

Safi Lynch Wilson is a dedicated mental health professional who provides culturally responsive therapy to immigrant communities and people of the diaspora. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by those navigating identity, trauma, and displacement, Safi creates a space where clients feel seen, heard, and supported.In addition to her therapeutic work, Safi conducts psychological evaluations for asylum seekers, helping them tell their stories with compassion and clarity to support more favorable outcomes in their legal processes.Born in Liberia and immigrating to the United States at the age of 12, Safi's personal journey has powerfully shaped her commitment to serving communities that often go unheard. Her lived experience informs her empathetic and culturally attuned approach.Safi is also a proud military spouse and the mother of three children, including a set of twins—roles that further enrich her perspective and resilience in both her personal and professional life.

Summary

In this enlightening conversation, Safi Lynch and I delve into the complexities of mental health within immigrant families. We explore the cultural expectations that shape the identities of immigrant children, the stigma surrounding mental health, and the importance of understanding intergenerational trauma. The discussion also contrasts indigenous and Western approaches to healing, emphasizing the need for empathy and forgiveness across generations. Safi shares her insights as a licensed therapist, highlighting the unique challenges faced by immigrant families and the importance of creating safe spaces for dialogue and understanding.

Takeaways

Cultural expectations can significantly impact mental health in immigrant families.

Shame and stigma often prevent individuals from seeking mental health support.

Intergenerational trauma is a common issue among immigrant families.

Understanding the unique experiences of immigrant children is crucial for effective therapy.

The indigenous approach to healing emphasizes community and collective wellness.

Western therapy often focuses on individual pathology, missing cultural context.

Empathy and forgiveness are essential for healing across generations.

Parents should create safe spaces for their children to express themselves.

Children of immigrants often struggle with identity and cultural expectations.

Therapists must dig deeper to understand the layered issues faced by immigrant clients.

Chapters:

00:00 Navigating Immigrant Family Dynamics

13:24 Cultural Expectations and Mental Health

20:33 The Burden of the Golden Child

24:14 Building a Sense of Self in Immigrant Families

28:57 Understanding Generational Trauma vs. Personal Accountability

29:50 Understanding the Past for a Better Future

35:59 Navigating Parent-Child Dynamics in Immigrant Families

46:55 Cultural Perspectives on Mental Health

53:21 Empathy and Healing Across Generations

To contact Safi Lynch services:

https://www.safilynchtherapeuticservices.com/consultations

https://providers.therapyforblackgirls.com/listing/safi-lynch-wilson-lcsw-c/

I first came across Franck Zanu through a compelling YouTube video titled “The White Dispossession of America.” It was my first encounter with the Zanu Project and with Mr. Zanu’s work. His perspective on this subject was bold, thought-provoking, and deeply engaging.

As I listened, I began thinking about the broader themes that connect his work to conversations I’ve been having on this podcast—especially around the crises facing African nations, the realities of African immigrant experiences, and the complex layers of race relations in America. I reached out to Mr. Zanu, and I was thrilled when he accepted my invitation to continue that conversation the podcast.

Bio:

Franck Zanu hosts the fast-growing podcast “Zanu Project. Rethink”. He is different. He is intense, explosive, analytical, and deeply thought-provoking. He is a life- coach, inspirational speaker, and human development consultant. Zanu’s approach to working with people is unique. While he is empathetic, intuitive, and objective, the most distinctive aspect of his approach is how he challenges you to view the issue from a completely different perspective. He successfully turns the issue upside down, transforming your perspective inside out so you see things from a brand-new perspective, energizing you to take action and achieve instant results. His path is marked by many colors, both professionally and culturally. He is a US citizen born in the Republic of Benin, West Africa. He has worked as a reporter for the New York Tribune and a photojournalist for the Washington Times stationed in the South.

Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Bulgaria, and other countries in Africa. He is an award-winning speaker on Black History at the African American Affairs Commission and Sikorsky Aircraft, both in Connecticut.

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Mr. Zanu shares his unique perspective on cultural identity, governance, and the challenges faced by the African diaspora. He reflects on his early life experiences, the impact of education and travel, and the importance of questioning established norms. Mr. Zanu emphasizes the need for cultural preservation and understanding the complexities of brain drain, while also addressing the dual identities that immigrants navigate in their new environments. His insights challenge listeners to think deeper about their roles in shaping a better future for Africa and its diaspora. In this conversation, We discussed the complexities of the African immigrant experience in America, focusing on the understanding of racial dynamics, misconceptions about success, and the importance of cultural identity. He emphasizes the need for community building and challenges the prevailing narratives around race and class in addressing inequality. We looked into a new approach to governance in Africa, suggesting the establishment of think tanks to redefine the future and address systemic issues.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Frank Zano's Journey

04:14 Early Life and Immigration Experiences

07:34 Professional Growth and Global Exposure

10:21 Cultural Observations and Identity Challenges

13:06 The Importance of National Identity

16:21 Critique of African Governance and Colonial Legacy

19:15 The Flaws in Post-Colonial Leadership

22:30 The Role of Education in Development

25:21 The Need for a New Narrative

28:14 Conclusion and Future Directions

39:19 The Illusion of Population Numbers in Africa

43:25 Colonization: Markets Over Resources

47:37 Cultural Identity and Assimilation Challenges

55:03 Misconceptions of Success in America

01:17:06 The Impact of Colonization on Self-Determination

01:21:31 The Role of Think Tanks in Addressing African Issues

01:27:09 Race vs. Class: Understanding Inequality in America

01:36:38 Questioning the Narrative: A New Perspective on Marginalization

01:41:50 The Historical Context of Development in Africa

01:47:54 A Call for New Leadership and Governance in Africa

What happens when the stories we inherit collide with the realities we live?

In this thought-provoking episode of the Pansa Pansa Podcast, author and cultural commentator Chinedu Achebe joins us to discuss his powerful new novel, When It All Falls Down, the sequel to The Miseducation of Obi Ifeayin. Through the fictional journey of Obi—a Nigerian American husband, father, and professional—Achebe explores the emotional and cultural complexities that many immigrants quietly carry.

Our conversation extends far beyond literature. Chinedu reflects on his own experiences growing up as a Nigerian American and explains how grief, family, history, and identity have shaped his writing. Together, we examine the often-unspoken pressures African immigrants face as they navigate multiple identities while raising families in America.We explore the complicated relationship between fathers and sons, the emotional expectations placed on African men, and why vulnerability is often mistaken for weakness.

Chinedu discusses how cultural norms surrounding masculinity can leave generations of men emotionally isolated and why emotional intelligence is essential for healthier families and communities. The conversation also addresses difficult but necessary subjects, including infidelity, marriage, postpartum depression, and mental health within African communities. We discuss why these issues remain stigmatized and what it will take to normalize conversations about emotional well-being.

One of the most compelling parts of our discussion examines the lasting psychological effects of the Nigerian Civil War (Biafra) and how historical trauma continues to influence later generations, even decades after the conflict ended. Chinedu also reflects on broader questions facing African immigrants: What does belonging really mean? Can you ever truly return home after building a life abroad? What legacy do immigrants leave for their children?

We also challenge the "model minority" mindset that many African immigrants adopt and discuss whether it sometimes prevents honest conversations about race, privilege, accountability, and solidarity with other Black communities.

Throughout the episode, Chinedu reminds us that reading, learning, questioning, and telling our own stories remain powerful tools for healing, understanding, and building stronger communities.

The takeaways:

• Chinedu Achebe's writing is deeply influenced by personal experiences and loss.
• The relationship between fathers and sons is crucial in shaping identity.
• Male vulnerability is often suppressed in African cultures, leading to emotional stunting.
• Infidelity and its impact on family dynamics are common themes in Achebe's work.
• Mental health issues, including postpartum depression, are often overlooked in African communities.

• Historical trauma, of the Biafra war and how it continues to affect generations.
• Aging immigrants face challenges when considering returning to their home countries.
• The model minority mindset among African immigrants can lead to a lack of critical self-reflection.
• Redefining blackness is essential for solidarity among people of African descent.
• Continuous learning and reading are vital for personal and community growth.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Chinedu Achebe

02:49 Exploring Fatherhood and Legacy

05:37 The Impact of Parental Relationships

08:54 Navigating Male Vulnerability

11:39 Cultural Expectations and Emotional Expression

14:21 The Pressure of Success in African Communities

17:10 Infidelity and Family Dynamics

19:56 Mental Health and Sexual Wellness

23:08 Historical Trauma and Its Legacy

41:41 The Biafra Trauma and Its Legacy

47:32 Aging in the Diaspora: Returning to Africa

52:46 The Model Minority Mindset Among African Immigrants

01:03:18 Redefining Blackness and Intergroup Discrimination

01:07:49 Affirmative Action: Access and Opportunity

01:18:31 The Importance of Continuous Learning and Knowledge

01:22:32 closing statement Copy of PANSA PANSA - OUTRO.mp3

Our conversation stems from social media dialogue to explore emotional expressions often shaped by deeply rooted cultural traditions and an individual’s personality, which can result in patterns of Enmeshment & Control and even generational Trauma.

Oludara (Dara) Adeeyo is a Los Angeles-based mental health therapist, author, and social media content creator passionate about encouraging people, especially Black women, to face every day with self-confidence and self-love. 

Oludara’s first series of books, published by Adams Media, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, share specific advice and activities designed to help Black women outwardly express their inner joy: Self-Care for Black Women (2022), Affirmations for Black Women: A Journal (2022), Mind, Body, & Soul: A Self-Care Coloring Book for Black Women (2024), and Meditations for Black Women (2025). 

Oludara has a private practice, Dark Berry Wellness, where she specializes in helping marginalized folks, especially Black women, manage their stressors, boost their self-confidence, and manifest their desires by releasing people-pleasing impulses.  

Summary

This conversation explores the complexities of parenting styles within African immigrant households, focusing on cultural norms, emotional expression, enmeshment, and generational trauma. The discussion highlights the challenges faced by immigrant parents in navigating their cultural expectations while raising children in a different societal context. It emphasizes the importance of healthy communication, the impact of favoritism, and the need for boundariesin family dynamics. The conversation also addresses the role of community support and cultural sensitivity in therapy, advocating for self-compassion and understanding in the parenting journey.

Takeaways

A.   Parenting styles in immigrant households can be influenced by cultural norms.

B.   Emotional expression is often shaped by cultural traditions and individual personalities.

C.  Enmeshment in families can lead to toxic dynamics and confusion about roles.

D.  Cultural differences can create challenges in relationships, especially for children of immigrants.

E.   Anger is often used as a means of control in parenting, which can be abusive.

F.   Immigrant parents may experience anxiety that affects their parenting expectations.

G.  The pressure to succeed can create mental health challenges for children in immigrant families.

H.  Healthy communication strategies are essential for fostering emotional expression.

I.     Favoritism in parenting can lead to low self-esteem and rivalry among siblings.

J.    Respect for elders must be balanced with the child's need for self-expression.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Parenting Styles in African Households

04:20 Cultural Norms and Emotional Expression

07:30 The Impact of Enmeshment in Family Dynamics

10:11 Navigating Anger and Control in Parenting

13:23 The Immigrant Experience and Parenting Challenges

16:32 The Pressure of Expectations on Immigrant Children

19:20 Fostering Healthy Emotional Expression

22:15 Unlearning Toxic Family Dynamics

25:15 The Role of Gender in Parenting Expectations

28:20 Reflections on Modern Parenting and Gender Roles

31:57 Breaking Patriarchal Norms in Parenting

35:06 Balancing Respect for Elders and Self-Expression

37:25 Navigating Immigrant Parenting Challenges

40:37 Cultural Expectations and Open Communication

41:34 Understanding the Need for Respect in Relationships

45:05 Dismantling Generational Patterns

48:36 Cultural Critique and Personal Growth

52:28 Community Influence on Individual Boundaries

55:22 Age-Appropriate Responsibilities in Parenting

57:42 Mental Health Impacts of Adult Responsibilities

58:52 Generational Trauma and Family Dynamics

01:01:47 Radical Acceptance and Community Compassion

01:03:31 closing statement Copy of PANSA PANSA

In this episode, journalist Luc Olinga shares his personal journey from Cameroon to France and eventually to the United States, reflecting on how each experience shaped his understanding of identity, race, and opportunity.Inspired by his essay "I Am a Black Man. DEI Is the New Racism," Luc discusses why conversations about race in America are often polarized and emotionally charged. Drawing from his experiences across three continents, he offers a perspective that challenges conventional narratives while encouraging thoughtful dialogue rather than ideological division.The conversation explores the complexities of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), the promise and limitations of meritocracy, educational inequality, and the unique position African immigrants occupy within America's racial landscape. Luc argues that while DEI was created to address historical inequities, some current approaches risk reinforcing division instead of creating lasting opportunity.Throughout the discussion, we also examine the importance of strong families, high expectations, community leadership, educational excellence, and personal responsibility as essential ingredients for long-term success.This episode is not about providing simple answers but it is an invitation to engage with difficult questions honestly, respectfully, and thoughtfully.

Bio:

Luc Olinga is a French journalist based in New York City. He worked for the French newswire Agence France-Presse (AFP), the world’s third-largest, for 15 years in Europe and the U.S. From 2014 to 2021, he served as AFP’s U.S. Business Correspondent in New York before becoming the Economics, Business, and Tech Editor for North America, based in Washington, D.C.
After leaving AFP, he led tech coverage at the U.S. business news platform TheStreet. He is currently documenting the Men’s Counter-Revolution in the U.S., traveling across the country to explore the perspectives of Black men on the nation’s shifting social and political landscape. You can read his work on Medium.

Born and raised in Cameroon, he later moved to Paris, France, where he spent most of his adult life.

Takeaways 

DEI initiatives can sometimes perpetuate new forms of racism.

Cultural identity plays a significant role in personal development.

Expectations from parents and community influence children's success.

Educational inequality is a root cause of broader societal issues.

Community engagement is crucial for empowering African immigrants.

The immigrant experience is shaped by both cultural heritage and new environments.

Meritocracy must be balanced with awareness of systemic inequalities.

Personal resilience is key in navigating challenges in foreign countries.

The importance of storytelling in understanding cultural experiences.

African immigrants often face unique challenges in the U.S. job market.

Chapters:

00:53 Exploring African Immigrant Experiences in America

01:20 Introduction to Olinga's Journey

04:27 Childhood Memories and Cultural Reflections

07:10 Navigating Education in France

09:59 Experiences of Race and Identity in France

13:10 Transition to the United States

15:53 The Impact of African Roots on Identity

18:57 Opportunities and Challenges in America

21:23 Understanding DEI: A New Perspective

24:44 Corruption vs. DEI: A Comparative Analysis

27:33 The Misconceptions of DEI

30:16 The Role of Education in Addressing Inequality

33:29 The Future of DEI and Its Implications

36:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

48:16 Inequality in Education: A Root Cause

51:26 The Role of Affirmative Action

54:12 Challenges in the Educational System

57:21 Community Engagement and Mentorship

01:00:31 Breaking the Cycle of Victimhood

01:02:54 Cultural Perspectives on Success

01:05:58 Expectations and Community Responsibility

01:09:44 The African Immigrant Experience

01:15:11 Meritocracy vs. DEI: A Complex Debate

According to an African proverb, "A wise man follows the advice of his neighbors, but a fool trusts his own illusions." In many African communities, mental illness and addiction are often hidden behind silence, stigma, and misunderstanding. In this powerful and deeply informative episode of the Pansa Pansa Podcast, we conclude our mental health series with an honest conversation about mental illness, substance use disorders, and addiction in African immigrant communities.

Our guest, Dr. Olawale Ojo, is a psychiatrist specializing in addiction medicine. He has dedicated his career to developing innovative addiction treatment programs, including inpatient addiction consultation services, Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and dual-diagnosis outpatient clinics that treat both mental illness and substance use disorders simultaneously. His mission is to transform lives by providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals and families affected by addiction.

Dr. Ojo begins by sharing his inspiring journey from Nigeria to the United States, reflecting on the influence of his parents, the importance of education, and the realities of immigration. He discusses the growing problem of brain drain across Africa and explains how his experiences shaped his passion for psychiatry and addiction medicine.

The conversation then explores one of the most difficult topics facing African immigrant families: the stigma surrounding mental illness. Dr. Ojo explains why conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders are medical illnesses—not moral failures or spiritual weaknesses. He also discusses how cultural beliefs, fear of shame, and lack of mental health education often delay treatment until symptoms become severe.

We also examine the unique pressures facing African immigrant children who are balancing two cultures while meeting high parental expectations. Dr. Ojo explains how stress, trauma, identity struggles, and academic pressure can contribute to depression, anxiety, and substance misuse among young people.

The discussion expands into addiction, examining both substance addictions and behavioral addictions. Dr. Ojo explains the science behind addiction, misconceptions surrounding cannabis and other drugs, the difference between legalization and medical safety, and why untreated addiction can have devastating consequences for individuals, families, and entire communities.

Topics Covered

• Dr. Olawale Ojo's journey from Nigeria to America
• Mental illness in African immigrant communities
• Depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder
• Addiction and substance use disorders
• Cannabis, legalization, and the science of addiction
• Behavioral addictions and technology addiction
• Parenting and mental health in immigrant families
• Mental health stigma in African culture
• Early intervention and treatment
• Communication between parents and children
• Community leadership and mental health advocacy

Chapters:

01:21 Dr. Olawale Ojo's Background and Early Life
12:35 Parental Involvement and Educational Influence
20:09 The Impact of Brain Drain on Africa
26:41 Challenges Faced by Immigrants in America
35:16 The Journey to Psychiatry and Addiction Treatment
37:39 Understanding Mental Illness in Cultural Contexts
49:03 Cultural Biases and Mental Health in Immigrant Families
1:02:15 The Unique Pressures on African Immigrant Children
1:06:25 The Interplay of Addiction and Mental Health
1:15:51 The Intersection of Law and Science in Substance Use
1:21:34 Understanding Addiction: Types and Impacts
1:30:17 The Long-Term Effects of Untreated Addiction
1:36:05 The Role of Communication in Mental Health
1:46:08 Community Engagement and Mental Health Advocacy

If this conversation resonates with you, please Like, Subscribe, and Share this episode.

Seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with addiction and/or mental illness by dial 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

We must explore all avenues to get to the root of a problem. According to an African proverb, "A wise man follows the advice of his neighbors, but a fool trusts his own illusions." The final episode on the theme of mental health discussion on the Pansa Pansa Podcast is about mental illness and addiction. It is a delight to have Dr. Olawale Ojo as a guest to bring his expertise to our diaspora community as a psychiatrist specializing in addiction. The purpose of this episode is to elaborate on the intersection between mental illness, addiction, and cultural stigma among Africans in the diaspora and mainly how these factors affect our youth as well as family relations.  In the past three episodes on mental health awareness, we have dived into the diversity of engaging topics. During our discussion, Dr. Ojo shared the story of his humble beginning, which came from dedicated parents and community mentors who empowered and believed in him. He talked about growing up in a society where mental illness is often misinterpreted and ill-treated, which he stated resulted in his interest in psychiatry.    

Bio:

Dr. Olawale Ojo began his medical journey at Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria, where his passion for mental health first took root. After earning his medical degree, he embarked on an exciting adventure to Brooklyn, New York, completing his general psychiatric residency at Interfaith Medical Center. It was there that he discovered his calling in addiction psychiatry. Driven to make a meaningful impact, Dr. Ojo moved to Indiana, Indiana University (IU), to specialize in addiction psychiatry. His commitment to helping those struggling with addiction led him to his current roles as the associate program director of the IU Addiction Psychiatry treatment program and the medical director of the IU Methodist Addiction Treatment and Recovery Center (ATRC).

In these roles, Dr. Ojo is dedicated to developing innovative inpatient consult addiction services, an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), and a dual diagnosis outpatient clinic. His work is not just a career but a mission to transform lives and provide hope to those in need. When he's not busy mentoring residents and leading community efforts related to addiction treatment and mental health awareness, Dr. Ojo enjoys spending quality time with his family and playing video games. His dedication to his patients and community is truly inspiring, making him a beloved figure in addiction psychiatry.

Our conversation starts by exploring Dr. Ojo's experience as an immigrant in America, navigating an educational system quite different from Nigeria's educational system, adapting to a job that many may consider demeaning, and how these experiences shaped the person he is today. We then dived into stigma-sounding mental illness, traditional practices, and how reliance on non-scientific methods of treatment affects the long-term outcomes for individuals with mental illness.  We further discuss how cultural biases on mental illness and/or parents' lack of relationship with their children within African immigrant communities may affect the recognition of the symptoms of mental illness in their children. We discussed mental illness and different types of addiction, specifically substance use, technology, gambling, and food, that may be more widespread or misunderstood in African immigrant families. Finally, we discussed solutions and resources available and how community leaders, as well as organizations, can help break the stigma around mental illness and addiction. Dr. Ojo provides extensive advice to parents who suspect their child may be struggling with mental illness and/or addiction.

These excerpts offers a glimpse into our discussion on mental illness and different types of addiction, specifically substance use, technology, gambling, and food, that may be more widespread or misunderstood in African immigrant families.

An African proverb says, "You cannot uproot the baobab tree with one hand," meaning that people's hesitancy or trust towards modernization is sometimes ingrained in the traditional belief system. One must first explore the strength or depth of the belief system. I recently came across a research publication on Pubmed titled "Indigenous Mental Healthcare and Human Rights Abuses in Nigeria. Reading this report allows me to reflect on how these beliefs and the stigma of mental illness persist among African immigrants in the diaspora, affecting seeking appropriate care. I was eager to contact the researchers of the paper, Dr. Adegboyega Ogunwale and Dr. Oladayo Bifarin, to further discuss their findings. I wanted to further explore with both guests how traditional beliefs played a role in Africans' perception and management of mental illness. I wanted to further explore how the stigma hinders patients from seeking the appropriate mental health care.

Bios:    

Dr. Adegboyega Ogunwale is the Chief Consultant Psychiatrist at Neuropsychiatric Hospital Aro, Abeokuta, and Chair of the Emerging Forensic Systems Interest Group, International Association of Forensic Mental Health Services. Dr. Ogunwale's key areas of expertise include Forensic Psychiatry, General Adult Psychiatry, Mental Health Legislation, and Medical Law & Ethics. His research work focused on general adult psychiatry, abnormal homicide, mental health services in prison, and mental health legislation.  He was awarded the Rafaelsen Young Investigator's Award of the International College of Neuropsychopharmacology in 2011 and the UK Chevening Scholarship in 2017. Dr Adegboyega Ogunwale joined the Department of Forensic & Neurodevelopmental Sciences as an MPhil/PhD student in June 2022 and is looking forward to completing his studies in 2026. Dr. Ogunwale completed his MBBS (Medicine & Surgery) at the University of Ilorin, Nigeria, and his MSc in Forensic Mental Health Research at King's College, London. Dr Ogunwale is a member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (UK) and a fellowship with the West African College of Physicians.

Dr. Oladayo Bifarin is a Clinical academic- Registered Nurse (Mental Health), Research & Effectiveness Lead at Mersey Care NHS FT, Liverpool, and a Sr. Lecturer (Mental Health Nursing). Dr. Bifarin teaches pre- and post-registration nursing. Dr. Bifarin holds PhD from the University of Bradford, United Kingdom; he earned his MSc from Edge Hill University, United Kingdom, and his BSc from Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria.

Takeaways
Cultural beliefs significantly impact mental health care in Nigeria.
Stigma surrounding mental health leads to social isolation and delayed treatment.
Indigenous mental health practices can offer valuable insights for care.
Research is essential for understanding and improving mental health services.
Gender dynamics play a crucial role in the treatment of mental health issues.
Addiction often stems from a desire to numb emotional pain.
Legal protections for mental health patients exist but are poorly implemented.
Community engagement is vital for addressing mental health stigma.
Culturally relevant approaches are necessary for effective treatment.
Mental health is a critical human rights issue that requires urgent attention.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Panza Panza Forum
01:19 Cultural Beliefs and Mental Health in Nigeria
03:42 Guest Introductions and Backgrounds
08:54 The Role of Research in Mental Health
11:16 Personal Motivations for Psychiatry
18:29 Human Rights and Mental Health Care
21:19 Indigenous Mental Health Practices
29:37 Cultural Narratives and Mental Health
35:02 Stigma and Its Impact on Treatment
39:45 Gender and Mental Health Abuse
51:30 Addiction and Mental Health
01:02:25 Legal Protections for Mental Health Patients
01:11:34 Gender Dynamics in Mental Health Treatment

Photo Time Magazine The Niger Delta, Nigeria. October 2012

Journal Link:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10327483/

Summary:

The conversation explores the experiences of African immigrants in America, focusing on their cultural identity, mental health challenges, and the importance of understanding these dynamics in psychology. Dr. Mercedes Okosi shares her insights on navigating identity as a child of immigrants, the pressures of academic success, and the need for cultural humility in mental health treatment. The discussion emphasizes the unique challenges faced by immigrant families and the importance of mental health awareness within these communities. In this conversation, Dr. Mercedes Okosi discusses the multifaceted challenges faced by immigrant communities regarding mental health. She highlights the psychological impact of immigration, the stigma surrounding mental health, and the importance of cultural competency in therapy. The discussion also covers the consequences of neglecting mental health, the role of substance use as a coping mechanism, and the generational shifts in attitudes towards mental health. Dr. Okosi emphasizes the need for increased awareness, advocacy, and resources to support mental health in immigrant populations, while also addressing the unique cultural perspectives that shape these experiences.

Takeaways:

The Pansa Pansa Forum addresses the lives of African immigrants.

Many immigrants struggle to balance their original culture with their new environment.

Mental health awareness is crucial for immigrant communities.

Cultural expectations can create pressure on immigrant children.

Identity struggles are common among children of immigrants.

Cultural humility is essential for effective psychological practice.

Immigrant families may have different conceptualizations of mental health.

Acculturative stress can impact the mental health of immigrant children.

Challenging stereotypes about immigrants is necessary for understanding.

Education on mental health is vital for immigrant parents. The immigration process can be traumatic for families.

Protective factors can help manage stress during immigration.

Children may face cultural distress in new environments.

Fear and uncertainty about immigration policies impact mental health.

Creating stability at home can help children cope with anxiety.

Stigma around mental health prevents many from seeking help.

Therapy is often seen as a last resort for people of color.

Confidentiality in therapy is crucial for building trust.

Ignoring mental health can lead to worsening conditions.

Cultural understanding is essential in mental health treatment.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Pansa Pansa Forum

02:48 Dr. Mercedes Okosi: Background and Expertise

06:03 Navigating Identity as a Child of Immigrants

09:12 Cultural Expectations and Academic Pressure

12:03 Understanding Mental Health in Immigrant Families

14:54 Challenges in Mental Health Awareness

17:48 The Role of Cultural Humility in Psychology

21:01 Advice for Children of Immigrants Pursuing Psychology

23:48 Unique Mental Health Challenges for Immigrants

27:09 Cultural Context in Mental Health Treatment

30:02 Challenging Stereotypes and Misconceptions

32:47 Acculturative Stress in Immigrant Children

35:33 The Psychological Impact of Immigration

40:38 Stigma Surrounding Mental Health in Immigrant Communities

44:12 Consequences of Ignoring Mental Health

46:29 Substance Use and Mental Health

48:22 Cultural Perspectives on Mental Health

52:12 Barriers to Mental Health Awareness

55:03 Promoting Mental Health Awareness

01:02:59 Generational Shifts in Mental Health Perspectives

01:05:46 Driving Change in Mental Health Approaches

01:07:09 The Role of Psychologists in Immigrant Communities

To learn more about Dr. Okosi, please follow the link below.

Check your benefits:
https://mentaya.com/checkbenefits/GROWTHWORK
Book a call with me!
https://calendly.com/drmokosi/15min
Mercedes J. Okosi, Psy.D.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
302 5th Ave, 8FL
New York, NY 10001
(646) 822.4624
www.growthworkpsych.org
[email protected]