Project – An Evaluation of Mental Health Challenges and Coping Strategies Among Unemployed Youths in Post-COVID-19 Nigeria

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Mental health is an essential component of overall health and wellbeing (WHO, 2023). It influences how individuals think, feel, behave, relate with others, and cope with daily challenges (American Psychiatric Association, 2022). Good mental health enhances productivity, emotional stability, social relationships, and quality of life, while poor mental health contributes to emotional distress, reduced functionality, and increased risk of physical and psychological disorders (Keyes, 2007). According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2023), mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, stress, and substance abuse have become major public health concerns globally, especially among young people.

Youth unemployment remains one of the most persistent socio-economic problems in developing countries, particularly in Nigeria (ILO, 2022). Unemployment refers to a situation where individuals who are willing and able to work cannot secure gainful employment opportunities (National Bureau of Statistics, 2024). In Nigeria, the rate of youth unemployment has increased significantly over the years due to population growth, economic instability, inadequate industrial development, poor educational systems, corruption, and limited job opportunities (Adebayo, 1999). The COVID-19 pandemic further worsened the unemployment crisis, leaving many young people without stable income, career opportunities, or economic security (World Bank, 2021).

The outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020 disrupted economic activities across the world (WHO, 2021). Governments implemented lockdowns, movement restrictions, and business closures to reduce the spread of the virus. While these measures helped control infections, they also resulted in severe economic consequences including job losses, reduced income, business failures, and increased poverty (ILO, 2022). In Nigeria, many private companies downsized their workforce, informal businesses collapsed, and recruitment activities declined drastically during and after the pandemic (NBS, 2024). Consequently, many youths became unemployed or underemployed, leading to financial hardship and psychological distress (World Bank, 2021).

The post-COVID-19 period in Nigeria has continued to present serious economic challenges such as inflation, rising living costs, fuel subsidy removal, insecurity, and unstable economic conditions (CBN, 2024). These realities have intensified the struggles of unemployed youths who already face uncertainty regarding their future (ILO, 2022). Lack of employment opportunities often exposes young people to emotional stress, depression, frustration, hopelessness, low self-esteem, and social isolation (Jahoda, 1982). Prolonged unemployment may also contribute to substance abuse, criminal activities, suicidal thoughts, and other risky behaviors among youths (WHO, 2023).

Mental health challenges among unemployed youths have become increasingly visible in Nigerian society (Adeniyi & Omigbodun, 2016). Many unemployed graduates and young adults experience anxiety due to financial dependence on family members, inability to meet personal responsibilities, and fear of social stigma associated with unemployment (Okafor, 2011). Social pressure from peers, family expectations, and societal standards of success further worsen psychological distress among unemployed youths (Adebayo, 1999).

The COVID-19 pandemic also contributed to social disconnection and emotional instability among young people (WHO, 2021). During lockdown periods, many youths experienced loneliness, uncertainty, fear of illness, and loss of social support systems (UNICEF, 2022). Even after the pandemic, the economic and psychological effects continue to affect the mental wellbeing of many unemployed individuals across Nigeria (World Bank, 2021).

Despite the increasing prevalence of mental health challenges, mental healthcare services remain inadequate in Nigeria (WHO, 2023). Access to mental health support is limited due to shortage of mental health professionals, poor healthcare infrastructure, stigma, lack of awareness, and high treatment costs (Gureje & Lasebikan, 2006). As a result, many unemployed youths resort to personal coping mechanisms to manage emotional stress and psychological challenges (Adeniyi & Omigbodun, 2016).

Coping strategies refer to the behavioral and psychological efforts individuals use to manage stress and difficult situations (Lazarus & Folkman, 1984). Unemployed youths adopt various coping strategies such as seeking social support, engaging in religious activities, learning vocational skills, participating in online businesses, substance use, entertainment, physical exercise, and motivational activities (Carver, Scheier, & Weintraub, 1989). While some coping strategies are healthy and productive, others may negatively affect mental and physical health (WHO, 2023).

In Nigeria, religion and family support systems play important roles in helping youths cope with emotional difficulties (Adeniyi & Omigbodun, 2016). Many unemployed youths seek comfort through prayers, religious gatherings, and community relationships. However, some individuals adopt unhealthy coping mechanisms such as alcohol abuse, drug use, social withdrawal, aggression, and internet addiction, which may worsen mental health conditions over time (WHO, 2023).

Several studies have examined unemployment and mental health separately in Nigeria; however, limited attention has been given to the combined effects of post-COVID-19 unemployment and mental health challenges among youths, particularly regarding coping strategies adopted during this period (Okafor, 2011). There is therefore a need to investigate the mental health experiences of unemployed youths in post-COVID-19 Nigeria and evaluate the effectiveness of the coping strategies they use.

This study seeks to evaluate mental health challenges and coping strategies among unemployed youths in post-COVID-19 Nigeria. The study aims to provide empirical evidence on the psychological impact of unemployment and identify practical approaches for supporting the mental wellbeing of unemployed youths in the country.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Unemployment among youths has remained a serious socio-economic problem in Nigeria for many years. The COVID-19 pandemic further worsened the unemployment situation due to business closures, economic recession, and reduction in employment opportunities. Many youths lost jobs during the pandemic, while thousands of graduates entering the labor market after the pandemic have struggled to secure employment. The continued economic difficulties in post-COVID-19 Nigeria have increased the burden on unemployed youths and exposed them to various mental health challenges.

Many unemployed youths experience emotional and psychological problems such as anxiety, depression, frustration, stress, hopelessness, fear, loneliness, and low self-esteem. Financial hardship and inability to achieve personal goals often contribute to emotional instability among young adults. In addition, social expectations, peer pressure, and family responsibilities intensify psychological stress among unemployed individuals.

The current economic realities in Nigeria, including inflation, rising living costs, insecurity, and unstable job markets, have further aggravated the mental health conditions of unemployed youths. Some youths now struggle to afford basic needs such as food, transportation, healthcare, and accommodation, thereby increasing emotional distress and feelings of uncertainty about the future.

Despite the increasing prevalence of mental health problems among unemployed youths, access to professional mental healthcare services remains poor in Nigeria. Mental health support systems are inadequate due to shortage of professionals, poor awareness, cultural stigma, and insufficient government attention. Consequently, many unemployed youths rely on personal coping strategies to manage stress and emotional difficulties. While some coping methods such as social support, religious participation, and skill acquisition may be beneficial, others such as substance abuse and social withdrawal may worsen mental health conditions.

The growing rate of depression, anxiety, drug abuse, and suicidal behavior among youths suggests that mental health challenges associated with unemployment have become serious public health concerns in Nigeria. If not properly addressed, these challenges may contribute to increased crime rates, reduced productivity, social instability, and poor national development.

Although previous studies have examined unemployment and psychological wellbeing in Nigeria, there is insufficient research focusing specifically on the mental health challenges and coping strategies of unemployed youths in post-COVID-19 Nigeria. Most studies do not adequately explore how the lingering effects of the pandemic and current economic conditions affect the mental wellbeing of unemployed young people.

Therefore, the problem this study seeks to address is the increasing mental health challenges faced by unemployed youths in post-COVID-19 Nigeria and the various coping strategies they adopt to survive emotional and psychological stress. The study intends to provide evidence-based findings that may help policymakers, healthcare providers, and youth development organizations develop effective interventions for improving youth mental health in Nigeria.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to evaluate mental health challenges and coping strategies among unemployed youths in post-COVID-19 Nigeria.

The specific objectives are to:

1. identify the major mental health challenges faced by unemployed youths in post-COVID-19 Nigeria;
2. examine the factors contributing to mental health problems among unemployed youths;
3. assess the coping strategies adopted by unemployed youths in managing mental health challenges;
4. evaluate the effectiveness of coping strategies used by unemployed youths in post-COVID-19 Nigeria.

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions will guide the study:

1. What are the major mental health challenges faced by unemployed youths in post-COVID-19 Nigeria?
2. What factors contribute to mental health problems among unemployed youths?
3. What coping strategies are adopted by unemployed youths in managing mental health challenges?
4. How effective are the coping strategies used by unemployed youths in post-COVID-19 Nigeria?

1.5 Research Hypothesis

H₀: There is no significant relationship between unemployment and mental health challenges among youths in post-COVID-19 Nigeria.

1.6 Significance of the Study

The study will be beneficial to public health practitioners and mental health professionals by providing information on the psychological effects of unemployment among youths in Nigeria. The findings may help healthcare providers develop intervention programs targeted at improving youth mental wellbeing.

The study will also benefit government agencies and policymakers by highlighting the mental health implications of unemployment and economic hardship among youths. The findings may guide the formulation of employment and mental health policies aimed at supporting young people in post-COVID-19 Nigeria.

Non-governmental organizations and youth development agencies will benefit from the study by gaining insight into effective coping strategies and support systems that can help unemployed youths manage emotional stress and psychological challenges.

Academically, the study will contribute to existing literature on unemployment, mental health, and youth development in Nigeria. It will also serve as a reference material for future researchers interested in related areas of study.

Finally, the study may help unemployed youths understand healthier coping mechanisms and encourage greater awareness of mental health issues within society.

1.7 Scope of the Study

This study focuses on the evaluation of mental health challenges and coping strategies among unemployed youths in post-COVID-19 Nigeria. The study will specifically examine common psychological challenges, factors contributing to mental health problems, coping mechanisms adopted by unemployed youths, and the effectiveness of these strategies in managing emotional stress and psychological wellbeing.

1.8 Operational Definition of Terms

Mental Health:
The emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing of an individual which affects thinking, behavior, and ability to cope with stress.

Unemployment:
A condition in which individuals who are willing and able to work cannot secure gainful employment.

Youths:
Young individuals generally within the age range of 18 to 35 years.

COVID-19:
A global infectious disease caused by the coronavirus which resulted in widespread health, social, and economic disruptions.

Coping Strategies:
Behavioral and psychological methods used by individuals to manage stress, emotional difficulties, and challenging situations.

Depression:
A mental health condition characterized by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities.

Anxiety:
A mental health condition involving excessive fear, worry, nervousness, or emotional tension.

Project – An Evaluation of Mental Health Challenges and Coping Strategies Among Unemployed Youths in Post-COVID-19 Nigeria