Incidence of Mental Health Problems Among Undergraduates at the University of Ilorin

Abstract

This study examines the incidence of mental health problems among undergraduates at the University of Ilorin. It also explores the impact of demographic variables such as gender, age, religion, residence type, and academic level on the mental health of students. Utilizing a descriptive survey method, 400 respondents were selected through simple random sampling. Participants completed a self-designed questionnaire titled "Prevalence of Mental Health Problems Questionnaire (PMHPQ)." The instrument's validity and reliability were rigorously tested. Data analysis involved the use of percentages, t-tests, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to evaluate the null hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings indicate a slightly high prevalence of mental health issues among the undergraduates, with symptoms including feelings of hopelessness, fear of abandonment, discomfort in close relationships, unexplained physical pain, and stress-related weight changes. However, the study found no significant differences in mental health problems concerning gender, age, or academic level. These results highlight the critical need for school-based mental health programs to address the psychological well-being of undergraduates in Nigeria.