Background of the Study
Faith-based organizations (FBOs) play a pivotal role in many communities by providing spiritual guidance, social support, and sometimes even healthcare services. In Benue State, these organizations are integral to the community fabric and have increasingly been recognized as potential partners in mental health support for older adults. As the elderly often turn to religious institutions for comfort and community, FBOs can serve as accessible platforms for mental health interventions. They can offer counseling, support groups, and stress-reduction programs that are culturally and spiritually aligned with the beliefs of older adults (Aminu, 2023; Okoro, 2024). The integration of mental health services into faith-based settings has the potential to reduce stigma and increase help-seeking behavior among the elderly, who may otherwise be reluctant to engage with formal mental health systems. Given the strong influence of religion in Benue State, leveraging the resources of FBOs may enhance the reach and effectiveness of mental health support, ultimately improving the overall well-being of older adults.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the potential benefits of involving faith-based organizations in mental health support, older adults in Benue State continue to face challenges in accessing appropriate care. Many elderly individuals experience mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and loneliness, yet cultural stigma and a lack of specialized mental health services contribute to their underutilization of available resources. While FBOs have the capacity to provide support, their involvement in mental health is often limited by insufficient training, lack of coordination with healthcare providers, and the absence of standardized programs. This disconnect between the potential of faith-based support and actual service delivery means that many older adults remain vulnerable, with unmet mental health needs that adversely affect their quality of life. Addressing this gap is essential for developing sustainable, culturally acceptable interventions that integrate spiritual and psychological support.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the role of faith-based organizations in providing mental health support to older adults in Benue State.
2. To identify the strengths and limitations of current faith-based mental health initiatives.
3. To recommend strategies for enhancing the capacity of FBOs to deliver effective mental health support.
Research Questions
1. What mental health support services are provided by faith-based organizations in Benue State?
2. How do older adults perceive the support offered by these organizations?
3. What measures can improve the integration of mental health services within FBOs?
Research Hypotheses
1. Engagement with faith-based organizations is significantly associated with improved mental health among older adults.
2. Limited training in mental health issues among FBO staff negatively affects service quality.
3. Strengthening partnerships between FBOs and formal healthcare providers will enhance mental health outcomes.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on selected faith-based organizations in both urban and rural areas of Benue State. Data will be gathered through interviews with faith leaders, surveys of older adult congregants, and program evaluations. Limitations include potential social desirability bias and variability in the types of services offered by different FBOs.
Definitions of Terms
• Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs): Religious institutions and groups involved in community support.
• Mental Health Support: Services that promote psychological well-being.
• Help-Seeking Behavior: The actions taken by individuals to obtain assistance for mental health issues.
• Integration: The process of combining different services to provide comprehensive support.
Background of the Study
School gardens have increasingly become innovative platforms for experiential learning, particularl...
ABSTRACT: The Impact of Global Trends on Vocational Curriculum Development is crucial for ensuring that vocational training remains relevant a...
Background of the Study
Financial risk reporting is a key component of financial transparency and corporate governance. It enables stakeh...
Chapter One: Introduction
Background of the Study
Management Information Systems (MIS) are integral to efficient corporate banking operations, provid...
Background of the Study
Online security protocols are essential for safeguarding customer data and maintaining trust in di...
ABSTRACT
This study investigates the compliance of the physical and mechanical properties of granites p...
Background of the study
Digital storytelling through vlogs has emerged as a transformative medium in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos where...
Background of the Study
The caregiving role of psychiatric nurses is both demanding and emotionally taxing, requiring them to address pat...
Background of the Study
Grey literature, such as technical reports, theses, and conference papers, represents a substantial...