Risk-Taking Behaviour, Substance Use Pattern and Perceived Severity of Corona-Virus Disease as Correlates of Mental Health Among Secondary School Students in Ibadan
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Abstract
This study explores the relationships between risk-taking behaviour, substance use patterns, and perceived severity of COVID-19 as correlates of mental health among secondary school students in Ibadan, Nigeria. Utilizing the Health Belief Model (HBM) as a theoretical frame work, a cross-sectional design using multiple regression, correlation analysis and T-test; the survey study adopted a stratified random sample of 480 adolescents. The findings reveal significant negative relationships between risk-taking behaviour and perceived severityofCOVID-19. Additionally, a positive relationship was found between perceived severityofCOVID-19 and mental health. The study also underscores the detrimental impact of substance use on adolescents' well-being, with significant negative relationships observed between substance use and both mental health and risk-taking behaviour. Female students reported higher mental health scores compared to males, potentially due to higher levels of emotionalexpression and social support. Students in higher classes and those attending privateschoolsreported worse mental health outcomes. Overall, the study provides strong evidence that risk taking behaviour, substance use, and perceived severity of COVID-19 are significant predictors of mental health outcomes among secondary school students. The highR² value indicates that these variables collectively explain a substantial portion of the variance in mental health outcomes, emphasizing the need for targeted strategies to reduce risk-taking behaviours and substance use, and to provide accurate information and psychological support to students during public health crises. These insights are crucial for policymakers, educators, and mental health professionals to develop effective interventions and policies to support the mental well-being of adolescents during and beyond the pandemic.
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