Prevalence and factors associated with mental health problems among undergraduates in a Nigerian university

Abstract Background The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of mental health problems (MP) among undergraduate students at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD). It also sought to identify the factors associated with MP among these students. Methods A cross-sectional research design was employed, utilizing a self-administered, semi-structured questionnaire. Logistic regression was used to analyse the relationship between various factors and MP. Analysis was carried out using Statistical Package for Social sciences (SPSS) Results A total of 354 students participated in the study, with an average age of 18.51 years (± 1.741), and a majority of male respondents (52.0%). The study found that the prevalence of MP among ABUAD students was 9.6%. Among the common mental health problems identified, depression was the most prevalent at 32.4%, followed by anxiety at 14.7%, and schizophrenia at 8.8%. Furthermore, the study revealed that the female gender was more likely to receive a diagnosis of MP compared to males (p = 0.002; OR: 6.574, 95% CI: 1.992–21.692). Conversely, students who had strong social support were less likely to be diagnosed with MP than those without such support (p = 0.022; OR: 0.225, 95% CI: 0.433–1.738). Additionally, students who missed a significant number of classes during the semester were more likely to receive a diagnosis of MP compared to those who did not (p < 0.001; OR: 11.030, 95% CI: 2.877–42.287). Conclusion This study indicated a relatively low overall prevalence of MP among ABUAD students. Factors such as gender, social support, and frequent class absences were identified as contributors to an increased likelihood of MP among these students. The study underscores the need for interventions aimed at reducing the prevalence of MP among ABUAD students.