University Students & Faculty Wellness Service

Free Mind: Supporting University Students & Lecturers

The back-to-school season is a great time to engage university students and lecturers about mental health and substance use to promote their well-being throughout the academic year.

To support these conversations, Futurology Wellness Foundation has launched Free Mind, a national campaign that provides youth and young adults ages 18 through 28, and their lecturers, parents, and caregivers, with resources and information about substance use, mental health, and the connection between the two.

The drug overdose crisis is constantly evolving and remains an important public health issue. In addition, the number of teens and young adults reporting poor mental health has increased over the past decade.

Drugs Can Make Things Worse

When you deal with lots of emotions, you might be tempted to turn to drugs and alcohol or cope by misusing medications that are not prescribed to you. But this can:

Cause or worsen anxiety, sadness, anger, and depression.

Affect your memory and mood.

Make you feel like someone who isn’t you.

Why This Matters

80,000+Nigerians Lost to Drug Overdose in 2025A constantly evolving public health crisis

75%Youth Overdose Deaths Involving FentanylAges 18–29, 2020–2025

40%High School Students AffectedStopped regular activities due to persistent sadness or hopelessness

1 in 5Students Considered SuicideSeriously considered attempting suicide

"Teens may use alcohol and other substances to help them cope with stress, anxiety, and depression. Talking openly about mental health and substance use, and knowing when to get professional help, is critical to helping teens, young adults and university students stay healthy. That's why this campaign supports youth, young adults, university students, parents, and caregivers in having those conversations early, before an issue arises."

Dr. Osatohanmwen Iredia — Chairman, Futurology Wellness Foundation

Built With Youth, For Youth

Dr. Osatohanmwen Iredia spoke directly with youth and young adults about their knowledge and perceptions regarding substance use to develop the messages, branding, and tactical strategies behind Free Mind. The campaign resonates with this age group by addressing the connections between substance use and mental health, the risk factors that contribute to drug use, and strategies to stay safe.

Futurology Wellness Foundation has also created dedicated resources for students, lecturers, parents, and caregivers about the latest substance use and mental health challenges young people may face.

Campus Partnership Programme

Partnering With Universities & Faculty

Futurology Wellness Foundation proposes strategic collaborations with universities, including the University of Benin (UNIBEN), to implement a comprehensive awareness programme on substance abuse and mental health promoting universal access to care.

Programme Objectives

Raise awareness of substance abuse and mental health issues among students, faculty, and staff.

Promote universal access to mental health support and substance abuse prevention and treatment services.

Foster a culture of whole-person integrated care, resilience, and healthy lifestyles within the university community.

Proposed Activities

Interactive workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns on substance abuse prevention and mental health promotion.

Training sessions for faculty and staff on identifying, supporting, and referring students facing substance abuse or mental health challenges.

Community-based outreach, including barbershop talks, campus dialogues, and wellness gatherings.

Collaboration with student associations, clubs, and peer educators to strengthen peer support and advocacy.

Expected Outcomes

Increased awareness and understanding of substance abuse and mental health issues within the campus community.

Improved access to mental health support and substance abuse prevention and treatment services for students, faculty, and staff.

Strengthened community resilience through a whole-person approach to wellness.

A healthier, safer, and more supportive campus environment that reinforces academic excellence.

Is Your University Ready to Partner With Us?

We work with student affairs offices, counseling centers, and faculty to bring Free Mind resources and campus wellness training directly to your institution.

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