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Research Paper | Psychiatry | Nigeria | Volume 12 Issue 9, September 2023 | Popularity: 5.3 / 10

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Exploring the Knowledge and Behavioural Responses of Tertiary Students towards Mental Health and Illnesses: A Cross-Sectional Study

Francis Awasighe Eremutha, Salem Iyorwuese Igyundu, Kafayah Adeola Jidda

Abstract: The mental health and wellbeing of tertiary students is a concern around the world. The study explored the knowledge, attitudes and behavioural responses towards mental illnesses among undergraduates. A total of 450 students were selected using a 3-stage sampling technique. Data was collected using a self-administered semi-structured questionnaire. A total of 10 Focus Group Discussions was also conducted. The quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and Chi-square statistics. Furthermore, Spearman rank correlation coefficient was utilized to evaluate the relationship between variables. The information from the FGDs were transcribed and analyzed for themes and contents. Respondents? mean age was 20.4 ? 2.4 years with the majority (52.4%) in the 20 and 24 years age group. The mean knowledge score for mental illness was 15.7 ? 3.3 indicative of an overall good knowledge about mental illness. The mean attitudinal score of respondents was 9.6 ? 2.7 indicative of an overall positive attitude towards mental illness. The mean perception score of respondents was 6.6 ? 1.7 indicative of an overall positive perception about mental illness. There was a significant association between class level of respondents and their knowledge about mental illness (p<0.05). There was also a significant association between age of respondents and their attitude towards mental illness (p<0.05). The correlation revealed significant positive correlations between knowledge and attitudes towards mental illness (r<0.0, p<0.01). Various derogatory words, phrases and slangs were used to describe individuals with mental illness by the participants. Reasons for stigmatization and discrimination against persons with mental illness were fear from lack of understanding about mental illness and fear of attack from such a person. The study recorded generally positive attitudes toward persons with mental illnesses; however, several stigmatizing perceptions were evident in the study findings. Increased mental health awareness and education can reduce the stigma toward mental illness.

Keywords: mental illness, behavioural responses, stigma, undergraduates

Edition: Volume 12 Issue 9, September 2023

Pages: 628 - 636

DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.21275/SR23830133413

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