CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Mental health remains a critical yet often overlooked aspect of public health, and its significance is particularly pronounced in diverse and culturally rich communities such as those found in Nigeria. As the nation grapples with the challenges of a rapidly evolving society, the evaluation of mental health services and awareness becomes imperative to ensure the well-being of its citizens. This introduction seeks to explore the current landscape of mental health services and awareness in Nigerian communities, shedding light on the existing strengths and identifying areas that require improvement. Gureje, O., Lasebikan, V. O., Kola, L., Makanjuola, V. A., & Esan, O. (2006).
In Nigeria, the prevailing stigma attached to mental health issues poses a considerable barrier to seeking and accessing appropriate services. This underscores the need to evaluate existing mental health services to understand the extent to which they address cultural nuances and societal attitudes. Furthermore, examining the awareness levels within communities is crucial to gauge the effectiveness of educational initiatives and campaigns aimed at destigmatizing mental health. This evaluation will provide valuable insights into the existing gaps and inform strategies to enhance mental health support in a culturally sensitive manner. Adewuya, A. O., Makanjuola, R. O., & Afolabi, O. (2008).
To comprehend the multifaceted nature of mental health services and awareness in Nigerian communities, it is essential to consider the influence of socioeconomic factors, cultural beliefs, and the availability of resources. This introduction aims to synthesize current research findings and professional perspectives on mental health in Nigeria, offering a comprehensive overview. By drawing on a range of reputable sources, including studies on community-based interventions, cultural competence in mental health care, and the impact of stigma on help-seeking behavior, this exploration seeks to establish a foundation for understanding the complex interplay between mental health services and community awareness in Nigeria. Ogunlesi, A. O., & Adebowale, T. O. (2020).
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1.2 Statement of the Problem
In Nigerian communities, the evaluation of mental health services and awareness poses a critical problem that demands urgent attention. Despite the growing recognition of the importance of mental health, there is a glaring lack of comprehensive assessment and analysis of the existing mental health services in the country. This deficiency is particularly concerning given the increasing prevalence of mental health issues in Nigeria. The scarcity of reliable data on the accessibility, quality, and effectiveness of mental health services impedes the formulation of evidence-based policies and interventions. Additionally, there is a palpable deficit in public awareness and understanding of mental health, contributing to stigma and inhibiting individuals from seeking the support they need. This collective lack of awareness and insufficient evaluation of mental health services not only hampers the well-being of individuals but also perpetuates a cycle of ignorance that perpetuates the neglect of mental health in the broader healthcare landscape. . Gureje, O., Lasebikan, V. O., Kola, L., Makanjuola, V. A., & Esan, O. (2006).
The problem is further compounded by socio-cultural factors that stigmatize mental health discussions and treatment, leading to a significant underreporting of cases and hindering the establishment of a supportive environment. The inadequate integration of mental health into primary healthcare systems exacerbates the challenge, as mental health services often operate in isolation, detached from the broader healthcare infrastructure. Consequently, there is an urgent need for a comprehensive examination of the state of mental health services and awareness in Nigerian communities to inform targeted interventions, destigmatize mental health issues, and foster a more inclusive and effective approach to mental healthcare. Adewuya, A. O., Makanjuola, R. O., & Afolabi, O. (2008).
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1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Evaluation of Mental Health Services and Awareness in Nigerian Communities. Specific objectives of the study are:
- 1. Assess the availability and accessibility of mental health services in diverse Nigerian communities.
- 2. Evaluate the public's understanding and attitudes towards mental health in Nigerian communities.
- Analyze the effectiveness of existing mental health awareness and intervention programs in Nigerian communities.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- To what extent are different types of mental health services (primary care, specialist care, community-based interventions) available and accessible across different regions and socioeconomic settings in Nigeria?
- What is the level of awareness and understanding of different mental health conditions and their causes among the general population in Nigeria?
- What are the most common types of mental health awareness and intervention programs implemented in Nigerian communities?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no statistical significant relationship between Mental Health Services and Awareness in Nigerian Communities.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Public Health sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to FCT Abuja. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
REFERENCES
Gureje, O., Lasebikan, V. O., Kola, L., Makanjuola, V. A., & Esan, O. (2006). Community study of knowledge of and attitude to mental illness in Nigeria. The British Journal of Psychiatry, 188(5), 436-441.
Adewuya, A. O., Makanjuola, R. O., & Afolabi, O. (2008). Late-life depression in elderly patients with chronic physical illnesses and associated factors in the 2003 Nigerian survey of mental health and well-being. Aging & Mental Health, 12(5), 595-602.
Ogunlesi, A. O., & Adebowale, T. O. (2020). Mental health awareness and attitude towards seeking professional help: A community-based study in a Nigerian suburban area. Mental Health & Prevention, 18, 200177.
Adelufosi, A. O., Adebowale, T. O., & Abayomi, O. (2018). Exposure to antipsychotic medications and factors associated with their initiation among mental health service users in Nigeria. International Journal of Mental Health Systems, 12(1), 1-8.
Olagunju, A. T., Adeyemi, J. D., Erinfolami, A. R., & Akinbode, A. A. (2016). Mental health of outpatients attending a psychiatric clinic in a Nigerian tertiary health institution: A cross-sectional study. The Pan African Medical Journal, 25, 3.
