New Book “We All Need Healing” Ignites National Dialogue on Trauma and Mental Health Recovery

With the rising cases of trauma and mental health challenges in Nigeria and across the globe, experts are urging stronger institutional and community support to help victims heal and rebuild their lives. In response, three professionals — Dr. Idiongo Usen Smith, Dr. Fola Rogers-Saliu, and Mrs. Grace Alexander-Abimbola — have co-authored a new book titled “We All Need Healing: Emerging Pathways to Healing from Trauma and Mental Health Experiences.” The publication explores holistic approaches to mental well-being and is already inspiring national discussions on collective healing.

Scheduled for public unveiling on November 9, 2025, via Zoom, the virtual launch will feature readings, discussions, and expert reviews. Renowned figures such as Dr. Enahoro Okhae, Prof. Babafemi Badejo, and Dr. Ayodele Ajayi are among the key participants. The 16-chapter book blends science, spirituality, and cultural insight, calling for a shift from individual coping to community-driven healing. It also challenges the stigma surrounding mental illness and encourages open conversations on emotional recovery.

Dr. Idiongo Smith explained that the inspiration for the book came from the authors’ shared desire to “heal the world one reader at a time.” She noted that trauma, often at the root of mental health struggles, is universal but manageable through awareness and compassion. Co-author Dr. Fola Rogers-Saliu added that many people suffer silently, emphasizing that “healing is not optional—it is essential for survival and growth.” She also called for mental health education in schools and family environments that nurture empathy and emotional stability.

Another co-author, Mrs. Grace Alexander-Abimbola, highlighted the connection between trauma and social issues such as poverty, gender-based violence, and displacement. She explained that hidden trauma manifests in symptoms like anxiety, chronic irritability, fatigue, and self-isolation. The book, she said, seeks to bridge the gap between professional knowledge and everyday understanding, offering both expert guidance and relatable stories that inspire hope.

According to the foreword by Professor Akindotun Merino, “We All Need Healing” merges science with compassion, providing readers with practical tools and emotional insight. Beyond its pages, the book serves as a collective call to action—encouraging individuals, families, and communities to see healing as a shared journey. By intertwining modern psychology, faith, and African wisdom, the authors present a powerful message: healing is possible, sustainable, and belongs to everyone.