An Examination of the Perceived Barriers to Seeking Psychiatric Care Among Young Adults: A Case Study of University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Kwara State
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Background of the Study
Mental health issues among young adults, including anxiety, depression, and substance abuse, are rising concerns in Nigeria (Abdullahi & Aliyu, 2023). However, despite the growing recognition of these challenges, many young adults fail to seek professional psychiatric care due to a range of perceived barriers. These barriers may include cultural stigmas, financial constraints, lack of awareness about mental health services, and fears about the consequences of seeking care (Omolayo et al., 2023).
In Nigeria, mental health care remains underdeveloped, particularly for young people. Studies have shown that young adults often delay or avoid seeking psychiatric help due to a combination of personal, societal, and systemic factors (Kehinde et al., 2024). Understanding these barriers is critical to developing interventions that encourage mental health-seeking behavior among this demographic. The University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Kwara State, serves as an important institution for mental health care in the region and provides a setting for examining the barriers that prevent young adults from accessing psychiatric services.
This study aims to explore the perceived barriers to seeking psychiatric care among young adults in Kwara State, focusing on students and young professionals in the area. The findings will help inform policies and strategies to improve mental health care access for young adults in Nigeria.
Statement of the Problem
Young adults in Nigeria face numerous barriers to seeking psychiatric care, including stigma, lack of resources, and insufficient awareness about mental health conditions. These barriers prevent many young adults from accessing necessary care, leading to untreated mental health issues and exacerbated conditions. Understanding the specific barriers faced by this population at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital is essential for improving access to mental health services and reducing the stigma associated with psychiatric care.
Objectives of the Study
- To identify the perceived barriers to seeking psychiatric care among young adults in Kwara State.
- To assess the role of cultural factors in influencing mental health help-seeking behavior among young adults.
- To explore the impact of education and awareness on the willingness of young adults to seek psychiatric care.
Research Questions
- What are the perceived barriers to seeking psychiatric care among young adults in Kwara State?
- How do cultural factors influence mental health help-seeking behavior among young adults?
- To what extent does education and awareness impact young adults' willingness to seek psychiatric care?
Research Hypotheses
- There are no significant perceived barriers to seeking psychiatric care among young adults in Kwara State.
- Cultural factors do not significantly influence the willingness of young adults to seek psychiatric care.
- Education and awareness have no significant impact on the willingness of young adults to seek psychiatric care.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on young adults (ages 18–35) at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Kwara State. It will assess perceived barriers, including cultural, financial, and awareness-related factors. Limitations include potential response bias, as some participants may not feel comfortable disclosing the true extent of their mental health concerns or perceived barriers.
Definitions of Terms
- Barriers to Psychiatric Care: Any factors that prevent individuals from seeking professional mental health services, including stigma, financial constraints, and lack of information.
- Young Adults: Individuals between the ages of 18 and 35 who are in a transitional stage from adolescence to adulthood.
- Mental Health Awareness: The knowledge and understanding of mental health issues, treatments, and the importance of seeking psychiatric care
- Cultural Factors: Societal beliefs, norms, and values that influence behavior, particularly attitudes towards mental health and seeking psychiatric help.
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