Prevalence and Determinants of Mental Health Issues among Adolescent Girls in Nigeria: An Analysis of 2018 Demographic and Health Survey Data

Abstract

This study investigates the prevalence and determinants of mental health issues among adolescent girls in Nigeria using data from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey. The study reveals that anxiety, depression, and trauma are common mental health issues affecting adolescent girls, with poverty, postpartum depression, and cultural stigmas emerging as significant predictors. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address these factors and promote mental health and well-being among adolescent girls in Nigeria. The study's results show that 35% of adolescent girls experience anxiety, 30% experience depression, and 24% experience trauma. The multivariate logistic regression analysis indicates that poverty, postpartum depression, and cultural stigmas are significant predictors of mental health issues among adolescent girls. The study's findings have implications for policy and practice aimed at promoting mental health and well-being among adolescent girls in Nigeria. The study recommends implementing mental health education and awareness programs, providing psychosocial support services, and promoting poverty reduction initiatives to address the mental health challenges faced by adolescent girls in Nigeria. Additionally, cultural sensitivity training for mental health professionals and collaboration with traditional healers can help increase access to mental health services and reduce stigma surrounding mental illness. This study contributes to the development of effective interventions and programs that can support the mental health and well-being of adolescent girls in Nigeria. By understanding the prevalence and determinants of mental health issues among this population, policymakers and practitioners can develop targeted strategies to promote mental health and well-being.