John Doe¹, Dr X²
¹Department of Psychology, Sahel Research Institute, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria
²Northern Behavioral Sciences Center, Kano, Kano State, Nigeria
Corresponding Author: Email: aminasi@nn.edu.ng
ABSTRACT
The mental health of university students has become a growing concern globally, particularly in low resource settings where psychosocial support is limited. This study examined the relationship between perceived stress, coping strategies, and mental health outcomes among undergraduates in Northern Nigeria. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 412 students across three universities in Borno, Yobe, and Kano States through standardized instruments: the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Brief COPE Inventory, and General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). Findings revealed a significant positive correlation between perceived stress and poor mental health (r = 0.62, p < 0.01), while adaptive coping strategies such as problem-solving and social support were negatively correlated with psychological distress (r = -0.41, p < 0.05). Gender and year of study were significant predictors of coping style preference. The study underscores the urgent need for structured mental health support systems within Nigerian universities, including peer counseling and resilience-building interventions.
Keywords:
mental health, perceived stress, coping strategies, university students, psychosocial well-being,
Northern Nigeria
