ASSESSMENT OF EMOTIONAL HEALTH CHALLENGES OF UNDERGRADUATES OF AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, ZARIA KADUNA STATE
Abstract
Emotional health plays a crucial role in the overall well-being and academic success of undergraduates. This study assessed the emotional health challenges faced by undergraduates at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Kaduna State. The research raised one research question and formulate one hypothesis, tested using Chi-square. A mixed-method approach was adopted, utilizing surveys and interviews to gather data from students across various faculties. The findings revealed significant stress, anxiety, depression, and social isolation among the students, as significant challenges (P= 0.000 <0.05). The study concluded that emotional health challenges are stress, anxiety, dippression and social isolation for undergraduate students at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Key issues such as academic pressure, financial difficulties, social isolation, and inadequate emotional support can contribute to mild stress, anxiety, and depression among the students. It was recommended that Ahmadu Bello University should establish a comprehensive mental health support system, including readily accessible counseling services, stress management workshops, and peer support programs. Additionally, financial assistance initiatives, such as scholarships and emergency relief funds, should be strengthened to alleviate the financial burdens that contribute to students' emotional distress.
Keywords: Emotional health, undergraduates, Ahmadu Bello University, stress, anxiety, depression, social isolation.