CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
Promoting mental well-being among adults holds significant importance for both public health and societal well-being (Orth and van Wyk, 2020). The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has placed an unprecedented strain on the mental health and overall wellness of affected workers (Prasad et al., 2020). While traditional health promotion efforts primarily focused on physical well-being, the contemporary concept of health encompasses more than just disease prevention. It now extends to active engagement in behaviors that foster optimal health throughout one's entire life (Orth and van Wyk, 2020; Kim, 2000).
Being in a state of good health has the potential to enhance happiness and improve overall quality of life, primarily due to the continuous and harmonious interplay of various components, including physical, emotional, social, intellectual, and mental aspects (Myers and Sweeney, 2005; Orth and van Wyk, 2020). Optimal health is intricately intertwined with one's lifestyle choices and habits.
The concept of wellness sheds light on the interconnectedness of various dimensions of well-being. It can be defined as a way of life focused on attaining optimal health and overall well-being, where individuals harmonize their physical, mental, and spiritual aspects to lead a more fulfilling existence (Kim, 2000). Some scholars propose that wellness introduces a fresh paradigm in healthcare, emphasizing both artistic and scientific practices that facilitate lifestyle changes, ultimately resulting in a state of optimal well-being for both body and mind (Myers and Sweeney, 2005; Puig et al., 2012; Yeom and Kim, 2009).
There have been various definitions of wellness, including the World Health Organization's (WHO) perspective, which views wellness as the realization of an individual's full potential across physical, psychological, social, spiritual, and economic dimensions, in addition to fulfilling one's roles in various life contexts (Smith et al., 2006; Choi et al., 2016). Regardless of the specific definition used, many researchers, along with the WHO, agree that wellness involves actively pursuing one's potential and embarking on a lifelong journey toward optimal health (Myers and Sweeney, 2005; Smith et al., 2006; Choi et al., 2016).
Mental health and overall wellness are crucial elements of a person's comprehensive well-being. However, they often receive inadequate attention or are stigmatized. Some individuals still perceive wellness as merely the absence of illness and remain unaware of methods to promote personal wellness and maintain stable health and overall well-being. This underscores the importance of educating individuals about the significance of taking control of their physical health, mental well-being, and holistic overall health, rather than relying solely on medical professionals (Obidiaso et al., 2021).
The World Health Organization's constitution, dating back to 1946, defines health as more than just the absence of disease or infirmity. It characterizes health as a state of complete well-being, encompassing physical, mental, and social dimensions. To truly achieve health, all these aspects must harmoniously coexist, with each dimension in a balanced and complete state of wellness.
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the recognition of mental health issues worldwide. These concerns transcend borders, affecting people from various backgrounds, regardless of age, gender, or socioeconomic status. The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a strong warning about the growing seriousness of mental health problems on a global scale. This surge can be largely attributed to shifts in demographics, resulting in a 13% rise in mental health conditions and substance use disorders in the past decade (up to 2017). Alarmingly, mental health conditions now constitute one out of every five years lived with a disability. Furthermore, around 20% of the world's children and adolescents are grappling with mental health conditions, with suicide ranking as the second leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds.
Turning our attention to Nigeria, the burden of mental health disorders is particularly significant. It is estimated that 25-30% of Nigerians are dealing with some form of mental illness, yet access to professional help remains limited, with less than 10% of this population receiving adequate care. The President of the Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria (APN) has reported that over 60 million Nigerians are facing mental health challenges (Premiumtimes, 2023). Unfortunately, mental health receives only a small fraction, approximately three percent, of the government's healthcare budget, according to the World Health Organization (Ajumobi, 2020; Mbamalu, 2021).
Mental illness, much like other diseases, exists on a wide spectrum of severity. Individuals affected may not necessarily exhibit obvious signs of illness, especially if their condition is mild. Conversely, some individuals may display clear symptoms such as confusion, restlessness, or withdrawal. This diversity extends to the various mental illnesses, including depression, schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, and obsessive-compulsive disorder, each of which has a unique impact on a person's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors (National Institutes of Health (US) and Biological Sciences Curriculum Study, 2007).
These mental health conditions, regardless of their severity, have a profound impact on various aspects of life. They can affect academic or work performance, relationships with family and friends, and participation in the community. Individuals dealing with mental health issues not only undergo significant personal suffering but also carry a substantial burden on society. Stigmatization and discrimination against those with mental health challenges are still prevalent, often discouraging individuals from seeking timely assistance and support. Without the right care and intervention, these conditions can have far-reaching consequences, impacting not only the individuals themselves but also their families and communities. Notably, two of the most common mental health conditions, depression and anxiety, impose a staggering economic cost of US$ 1 trillion annually on the global economy (National Institutes of Health (US) and Biological Sciences Curriculum Study, 2007).
Mental health problems are highly prevalent worldwide, causing significant distress, a decrease in the quality of life, higher mortality rates, and substantial economic and societal burdens. Given these challenges, it is crucial to seek new knowledge on how to address them effectively. This leads to the research objective, which is to investigate the impact of therapy on the mental health and overall wellness of clients at the NDLEA Rehabilitation Center in Lagos.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Drug abuse has emerged as a pervasive issue in Nigeria, presenting substantial risks to individuals, families, and society at large. According to data from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime in Nigeria, approximately 14.4% of the population between the ages of 15 and 64, equivalent to 14.3 million people, engage in drug abuse.
Several factors contribute to the escalating problem of drug abuse in Nigeria. Firstly, the presence of high unemployment rates and limited economic opportunities leaves many individuals susceptible to turning to drugs as a means of escape or a coping mechanism. The situation is exacerbated by a lack of access to education and the prevalence of poverty. Additionally, the easy availability of illicit drugs, largely due to weak law enforcement and porous borders, facilitates their distribution (Kareem, 2023).
Moreover, social pressures, peer influence, and a curiosity for experimentation contribute to the initiation of drug abuse among young people. Media portrayal and the glorification of substance use in popular culture, coupled with insufficient drug education programs, further exacerbate the issue.
The repercussions of drug abuse in Nigeria are extensive and profoundly damaging. On an individual level, drug addiction leads to physical and psychological health problems, impairs cognitive function, and strains relationships. Academic and occupational performance decline, resulting in a diminished quality of life for those affected. Furthermore, drug abuse contributes to an increase in crime rates, as individuals resort to illicit activities to sustain their addiction (Kareem, 2023).
The impact of drug abuse extends to families, causing social disruption and emotional distress. Children raised in households affected by drug addiction often experience neglect, abuse, and a tumultuous upbringing, perpetuating a cycle of drug abuse and societal dysfunction. Additionally, drug trafficking and drug-related violence pose a significant threat to national security, stability, and economic development (Kareem, 2023).
Individuals who engage in substance abuse frequently suffer from a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and psychosis. While rehabilitation centers like NDLEA's in Lagos offer therapy and support, the extent to which these interventions positively influence the mental health and overall well-being of their clients remains an underexplored area. Understanding the effectiveness of therapy in addressing their mental health needs is critical for enhancing the quality of care provided by such institutions.
1.3 Aim of the Study
The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of therapy on mental health and wellness among clients of the NDLEA Rehabilitation Center in Lagos.
1.4 Objectives of the Study
The specific objectives of this study include:
- To assess the mental health status of clients at the NDLEA Rehabilitation Center before therapy.
- To evaluate the therapeutic interventions provided at the center.
- To determine the changes in mental health and overall wellness of clients after undergoing therapy.
1.5 Research Questions
This study will address the following research questions:
- What is the mental health status of clients at the NDLEA Rehabilitation Center before therapy?
- What are the therapeutic interventions provided at the center?
- How do clients' mental health and overall wellness change after undergoing therapy?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
H0: Therapy provided at the NDLEA Rehabilitation Center in Lagos does not significantly improve the mental health and overall wellness of clients.
Ha: Therapy provided at the NDLEA Rehabilitation Center in Lagos significantly improves the mental health and overall wellness of clients.
1.7 Justification of the Study
This study is justified by the need to enhance our understanding of the impact of therapy on mental health and wellness among individuals seeking recovery from substance abuse, particularly in the context of the NDLEA Rehabilitation Center in Lagos. The findings from this research can inform policy decisions, improve the quality of care provided to clients, and contribute to the broader efforts to address substance abuse and mental health issues in Nigeria.
1.8 Scope of the Study
This study will focus specifically on clients receiving therapy at the NDLEA Rehabilitation Center in Lagos, Nigeria. It will assess their mental health status before therapy, evaluate the therapy interventions provided, and measure changes in mental health and overall wellness after therapy. The scope of the study is limited to this specific rehabilitation center and its clients in Lagos.
