Authors
Gabriel Onyebuchi Oguamanam
Department of Sociology/Anthropology
Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
go.oguamanam@unizik.edu.ng
Augustine Ikechukwu Obah
Department of Sociology/Anthropology
University of Uyo, Nigeria
augustineobah@uniuyo.edu.ng
Abstract
Nigeria today confronts a state of emergency in mental
health. Despite there being policies aimed at addressing
mental issues in Nigeria, there is still significant
disparity between the demand and supply of mental health services, and at the same time, in-depth
information on mental health services is non-existent.
Therefore, this study explored coping strategies and
support systems in the treatment of mental health
problems in Awka South Local Government Area,
Anambra State. Social learning theory by Albert
Bandura served as the theoretical framework. It also
employed a cross-sectional survey design and multistage sampling technique where a total of 400
respondents who are residents of Awka South Local
Government Area of Anambra were randomly sampled
using a structured questionnaire and in-depth interviews.
Data collected were presented and analyzed using
descriptive statistics such as percentages and frequency
distribution tables. Interviews were transcribed and
analyzed with the use of the thematic method of data
analysis. The study hypotheses were tested using the chisquare (x²) test of statistics. The study findings revealed
that mental health problems are highly prevalent in
Awka South Local Government Area, with most
respondents affirming their visibility and public concern.
It showed that youth are the most affected demographic,
likely due to socio-economic pressures such as
unemployment and drug abuse. It was recommended
that, amongst other things, the Anambra State
Government, in collaboration with non-governmental
organizations, should implement community-based
awareness programs to educate residents of Awka South Local Government Area on the causes, symptoms, and
treatment of mental health problems.
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