Using PR to Navigate Crises and Support Mental Health in Troubled Times
Rev Prof Chika Gabriel Okpalike of Nnamdi Azikiwe University delivered the June Business Lecture for the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Anambra State Chapter. He outlined crisis management as a core PR function that combines preparation, rapid transparent response, stakeholder communication and long-term reputation recovery. In a troubled society, he explained, PR also helps curb panic, fight misinformation and foster trust to protect both organisational reputation and community well-being. Prof Okpalike introduced five pillars for addressing societal mental health through PR: empathy-driven messaging, combating misinformation, amplifying trusted voices, accessible communication and stigma reduction. He urged practitioners to scan the environment, set up dedicated response teams and integrate mental health support like hotlines and counseling into their strategies. Dr Ozioma Nwankwo added that effective crisis PR must be a two-way dialogue, backed by concrete actions, sincere apologies when needed and close collaboration with leadership. The session concluded with a tribute to a protocol icon and birthday celebrations for chapter members.
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