Psychiatrists have called on both the Federal and Oyo State Governments to provide at least one year of mental health monitoring for the schoolchildren and teachers who were rescued following their abduction by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area.
The mental health experts said that beyond immediate crisis intervention, the rescued pupils should undergo comprehensive psychological assessments and receive continuous mental health care for the next 365 days.
According to the psychiatrists, the emotional impact of the kidnapping might not fade quickly.
They stressed that only through sustained, long-term care can mental health issues be identified in time for effective intervention.
Unexplained physical symptoms, including headaches, may arise in children experiencing anxiety. Among these, stomach aches are particularly prevalent. Clinicians and caregivers should recognize such complaints as potential indicators of underlying psychological distress and respond appropriately.
2026-07-14
