Awareness and Utilization of Mental Health Services Among Undergraduate Students at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Northwest Nigeria

Abstract

Mental health disorders are a leading cause of disability globally, yet service utilization remains low, especially in sub Saharan Africa. This study assessed awareness and utilization of mental health services among undergraduate students  at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 undergraduate  students selected via multistage sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using  SPSS version 27. Chi-square and regression analyses identified predictors of service utilization. Most respondents  (97.3%, n = 292) were aware of mental health, and 84% (n = 252) knew about mental health services, but only 54.8% (n  = 138) were aware of on-campus services. Utilization was low (11%, n = 33), with orthodox services being the most  used (81.8%, n = 27). Key predictors of utilization included a history of mental illness (OR = 0.156, p = 0.009) and  ongoing mental illness (OR = 0.046, p < 0.001). Stigma (39%, n = 117), lack of knowledge (32%, n = 96), and financial  constraints (28%, n = 84) were major barriers. Despite high awareness, utilization of mental health services remains low  among students. Targeted interventions to reduce stigma, improve accessibility, and integrate mental health education into curricula are recommended.