MENTAL HEALTH DIFFICULTIES, COPING MECHANISMS AND SUPPORT SYSTEMS AMONG IN SCHOOL ADOLESCENTS IN ILORIN WEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, ILORIN KWARA STATE

Abstract

Although adolescents are highly vulnerable to mental health challenges, they receive little attention, especially in developing countries. The study was on mental health difficulties faced by adolescents in three senior secondary schools in Ilorin West Local Government Area, Ilorin, Kwara Sate, their coping strategies and support systems. The study is a descriptive cross-sectional study using multi stage sampling to select 274 participants for the study. More than half of the respondents 57.09% are familiar with different mental health condition. The survey also shows a higher female participation rate 60.45% compared to males 39.55%. Majority 72.01% of students feel overworked due to academic demands, and despite completing assignments or homework within deadlines, they may experience increased stress. The data reveals that 47.01% of students use music as a coping mechanism for anxiety and only 1% of respondents have sought professional help. The p value of 1% (0.01< 0.05) of the data analysis on mental health clearly shows that the respondents have different experiences and views about their mental health. The p value of 0.9 in coping strategy is such a small quantity that it indicates that the differences between the coping strategies are statistically significant. The analysis of four section datasets reveals significant variability 0.01 in respondent characteristics, suggesting that demographic factors play a crucial role in shaping opinions and experiences. Mental health data suggest that respondents have very different mental health experiences, which could be due to personal, environmental, or situational factors. Coping strategies data shows that there is no uniform approach to coping with mental health challenges, and individuals may adopt different strategies based on their personal circumstances or preferences. This indicates a need for personalized mental health interventions that cater to the diverse coping mechanisms employed by different individuals.