MB’s Story: "I used to hear voices after smoking weed"

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 MB 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)Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba, LagosAro Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Abeokuta, Ogun StateUniversity College Hospital (UCH), IbadanFederal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, EnuguFederal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Benin CityPrivate & NGO Rehabilitation CentresCADAM Rehabilitation Facility, Epe, Lagos StateTranquil and Quest Behavioral Health, Lekki, LagosSynapse Services, Abuja & LagosLighthouse Rehab Centre, Lekki & Ikeja, LagosHelplines & Peer SupportSynapse Services: 08152882329Narcotics Anonymous Nigeria: peer‑led 12‑step meetings Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (MANI): online peer support and referrals at mentallyaware.orgOnline & Self‑Help ResourcesRehabs.Africa Nigeria Directory: https://rehabs.africa/location/nigeria/“Substance Use and Misuse in Nigeria” (NCBI e‑book chapter): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64815/Mayo Clinic – Drug Addiction Guide: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/drug-addiction/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20365113Taking Your Next StepsReach out by phone or in person to one of the hospitals or centres listed above.Involve trusted friends or family members in your plan—recovery is easier with support.Consider whether inpatient (residential) or outpatient programmes best suit your needs.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.Want to Share Your Story? If you enjoyed this episode and would like to be featured on the podcast, fill out this⁠⁠⁠ guest application form⁠⁠⁠.We’ve just released Love in Detty December, curated by Noisy Streetss and edited by Aidelohi Omo-Eboh, Àjọkẹ́ Bọ́dúndé, and Mofiyinfoluwa O. This collection of contemporary African romantic stories captures the heart of our shared December experiences. Get your copy of the anthology ⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up⁠ for our newsletter to receive exclusive updates on upcoming episodes, events, and storytelling projects.Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠ to stay in the loop!Follow Bolaji on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠Bolaji