Abstract:
Background: Generally, there is limited public understanding of mental illness, and
there are certain misconceptions regarding those who suffer from mental
disorders. They cut across cultures, periods, and religions. Adolescents are not
exempted from this limitation. This study seeks to assess the perception and
attitude of adolescents towards mental disorders in Abuja. Methods: This was
descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted between August and October, 2021
among adolescents in an Urban Area in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Ethical
approval was granted by Bingham University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Plateau State.
Results: In summary, 239 (59.0%) were females, 166 (41.0%) were males.
Adolescents had a negative attitude to mental illness as indicated by the composite
mean (2.48). Only 55 (13.6%) believe that they are dangerous, 68 (16.5%) agree
that they are aggressive and violent, 176 (43.5%) stated that they should be locked
up. About half 229 (56.6%) stated that they would not be scared to be friends with
a mentally ill person, 86 (21.3%) stated that will not. Over a third 280 (69.2%) of
adolescents agreed to be in same class/school with a person that has a mental
disorder, while 62 (15.4%) stated that they will not, 119 (29.4%) said that they
would be embarrassed if they had a mental disorder, 145(35.8) said they cannot be
friends with people with mental disorders, 124(30.7) stated that they cannot play
with someone with mental illness. Conclusion: Adolescents had a negative attitude
to mental illness; thus, they and the community will require reorientation about the
fact that mentally ill people are dangerous and violent. This can be done through
health education and promotions, story telling, role plays, peer group activities.
