Family Characteristics and Mental Health Status of Secondary School Students in a Rural Community in Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

Mental health issues among adolescents are of serious public health importance. This study was conducted to determine the relationship between family characteristics and the mental health status of adolescents in secondary schools in a rural community in South west Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted. Family functionality was assessed using family APGAR standardised instrument. Mental health was assessed using the strength and difficulty questionnaire. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test and binary logistics regression model at p < 0.05. A total of 279 respondents were assessed. The prevalence of clinically significant mental health problems was found to be 38%. The predictors of mental health problems were family functionality (OR = 2.2; CI = 1.267–3.885) and mothers’ occupation (OR = 0.39; CI = 0.159–0.995) Our study demonstrated that family characteristics affect the mental health of in-school adolescents. The enhancement of family relationship and socioeconomic status would promote the mental wellbeing of in-school adolescents.