Mental Health Interventions for Adolescents and Youth in Nigeria: A Systematic Review of Effectiveness
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54536/ajmri.v5i6.8848Keywords:
Adolescent, Health, Intervention, Mental, Nigeria, YouthAbstract
Young people are particularly vulnerable to the protective or harmful effects of mental health that occur during the stages of development, impacting cognitive, emotional and behavioural pathways that persist through the transition to adulthood. The study aimed to synthesise available evidence on the effectiveness of interventions intended to improve mental health-related outcomes among adolescents and youth in Nigeria. The study adopted the PIO framework to guide the study, developing precise variables for the study, as well as determining inclusion and exclusion criteria for the study, and the search strategy, keywords and terms. To ensure comprehensive coverage of the literature, PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, AJOL, and Cochrane Library were searched. The PRISMA guideline assisted the selection of 40 studies included in the study, as the search generated 1,701 publications. The evidence indicates that the interventions have potential to improve mental health outcomes for adolescents and young adults in Nigeria, especially for structured, multi-session, and multicomponent, trauma-focused, and CBT/REBT-based interventions. As noted, there are benefits of the intervention in the reduction of levels of depression, anxiety, PTSD, academic and social anxiety, stress, self-harm or suicidal ideation, as well as across overall well-being outcomes, with some of these benefits persisting at short- to medium-term follow-up. Furthermore, school-based literacy programs were effective primarily for knowledge outcomes and some stigma/help-seeking outcomes, with limited evidence for symptom outcomes. Combined approaches tend to produce improved, significant mental health outcomes across various populations, especially CBT combined with art or music. This keys into the Nigerian context of appreciation for local and culturally focused arts and music.
Downloads
References
Abed Alah, M., & Abdeen, S. (2026). Beyond Survival: Understanding and Addressing the Mental Health Needs of Displaced Populations in Conflict Settings. Current Psychology, 45, 859. https://doi.org/10.1007/S12144-026-09423-9
Adewuya, A. O., Ola, B. A., Coker, O., Atilola, O., Fasawe, A., & Ajomale, T. (2019). A Stepped Care Intervention for Non-Specialist Health Workers' Management of Depression in The Mental Health in Primary Care (Mehpric) Project, Lagos, Nigeria: A Cluster Randomised Controlled Trial. General Hospital Psychiatry, 60, 76–82. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.Genhosppsych.2019.07.012
Ahad, A. A., Sanchez-Ruiz, M. J., & Sartawi, B. (2023). Mental health literacy, attitudes toward help-seeking, and public stigma: A systematic review. Frontiers in Public Health, 11, 1123456. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2023.1123456
Aisiku, O. A., & Imarenezor, E. P. K. (2025). Mental Health Literacy, Stigma, and Help-Seeking Behavior: A Study Among Teenagers in Rumuolumeni, Rivers State. African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research, 2(2), 150-182. https://doi.org/10.58578/Ajmsphr.V2i2.5256
Aluh, D. O., Onu, J. U., & Caldas De Almeida, J. M. (2023). A New Era for Mental Health Care in Nigeria. The Lancet Psychiatry, 10(5), 310–311. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(23)00071-8
Amoke, C. V., Ede, M. O., Nwokeoma, B. N., Onah, S. O., Ikechukwu-Ilomuanya, A. B., Albi-Oparaocha, F. C., Nweke, M. L., Amoke, C. V., Amadi, K. C., Aloh, H. E., Anyaegbunam, E. N., Nwajiuba, C. A., Onwuama, O. P., Ede, K. R., Ononaiwu, A. I., & Nweze, T. (2020). Effects Of Group Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy on Psychological Distress of Awaiting-Trial Prison Inmates. Medicine, 99(17), E18034. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000018034
Anichebe, O., Anibueze, A. U., Anum, V., Ohaja, E. U., Ezeugwu, C. A., Obasi, N. T., Onogwu, E. O., & Gever, V. C. (2024). Effectiveness Of Drama and Music Therapies as Health Communication Interventions for Reducing Anxiety and Posttraumatic Disorders Among Children-Victims of Flood. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 57, 101890. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.Ctcp.2024.101890
Atewologun, F., Adigun, O. A., Okesanya, O. J., Hassan, H. K., Olabode, O. N., Micheal, A. S., Ahmed, M. M., Ukoaka, B. M., Idris, N. B., Oso, T. A., & Lucero-Prisno, D. E., 3rd (2025). A Comprehensive Review of Mental Health Services Across Selected Countries in Sub-Saharan Africa: Assessing Progress, Challenges, and Future Direction. Discover Mental Health, 5(1), 49. https://doi.org/10.1007/S44192-025-00177-7
Atilola, O., Ayinde, O., Obialo, F.-K., Adeyemo, S. O., Adegbaju, D., & Anthony, R. (2022). Towards School-Based Mental Health Programs in Nigeria: The Immediate Impact of a Depression-Literacy Program Among School-Going Adolescents and Their Teachers. Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health, 16:70. https://doi.org/10.1186/S13034-022-00503-9
Babasola, K. M., Okhiria, A., Bale, S. I., Sorunke, T. A., & Alli, U. O. (2024). Prevalence Of Mental Illness Among Youths in Ogun State, Southwest Nigeria. UMYU Scientifica, 3(1), 63-70. https://doi.org/10.56919/Usci.2431.007
Bella-Awusah, T., Ani, C., Ajuwon, A., & Omigbodun, O. (2016). Effectiveness Of Brief School-Based, Group Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Depressed Adolescents in South West Nigeria. Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 21(1), 44–50. https://doi.org/10.1111/Camh.12104
Bramer, W. M., de Jonge, G. B., Rethlefsen, M. L., Mast, F., & Kleijnen, J. (2018). A systematic approach to searching: An efficient and complete method to develop literature searches. Journal of the Medical Library Association, 106(4), 531–541. https://doi.org/10.5195/jmla.2018.283
Bramer, W. M., Rethlefsen, M. L., Kleijnen, J., & Franco, O. H. (2017). Optimal database combinations for literature searches in systematic reviews: A prospective exploratory study. Systematic Reviews, 6(1), 245. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-017-0644-y
Büchter, R. B., Weise, A., & Pieper, D. (2020). Development, Testing and Use of Data Extraction Forms in Systematic Reviews: A Review of Methodological Guidance. BMC Medical Research Methodology, 20(1), 259. https://doi.org/10.1186/S12874-020-01143-3
Buhari, O., Bolarinwa, O., Adegoke, A., Ogunmodede, A., Oguntayo, R., Adegunloye, O., Ajokpaniovo, M., Oyeleke, J., & Malomo, S. (2021). Internet-Based Psychological Interventions to Improve Mental Health: Preference for and Willingness to Use Among Students in A Nigerian University. East African Medical Journal, 98(9), 4151–4159. Https://Www.Ajol.Info/Index.Php/Eamj/Article/View/215167
Campbell, M., Mckenzie, J. E., Sowden, A., Katikireddi, S. V., Brennan, S. E., Ellis, S., Jamie, H.-., Rebecca, R., Sasha, S., James, T., Vivian, W., & Hilary, T. (2020) Synthesis Without Meta-Analysis (Swim) In Systematic Reviews: Reporting Guideline, BMJ, 368, L6890 https://doi.org/10.1136/Bmj.L6890
Chibanda, D., Weiss, H. A., Verhey, R., Simms, V., Munjoma, R., Rusakaniko, S., Chingono, A., Munetsi, E., Bere, T., Manda, E., Abas, M., & Araya, R. (2016). Effect Of a Primary Care–Based Psychological Intervention on Symptoms of Common Mental Disorders in Zimbabwe: A Randomized Clinical Trial. The Journal of American Medical Association, 316(24), 2618–2626. https://doi.org/10.1001/Jama.2016.19102
Christ, C., Schouten, M. J. E., Blankers, M., Van Schaik, D. J. F., Beekman, A. T. F., Wisman, M. A., Stikkelbroek, Y. A. J., & Dekker, J. J. M. (2020). Internet and Computer-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety and Depression in Adolescents and Young Adults: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal Of Medical Internet Research, 22(9), Article E17831. https://doi.org/10.2196/17831
Colizzi, M., Lasalvia, A., & Ruggeri, M. (2020). Prevention and Early Intervention in Youth Mental Health: Is It Time for A Multidisciplinary and Trans-Diagnostic Model for Care? International Journal of Mental Health Systems, 14, 23. https://doi.org/10.1186/S13033-020-00356-9
Damul, B., King, H. C., Jafiya, H., & Bestman, C. (2026). Mental Health Policy Interventions in Nigeria: A Scoping Review of Development, Implementation and Outcomes. Cambridge Prisms: Global Mental Health, 13, E61. https://doi.org/10.1017/Gmh.2026.10158
David, O. P., Dammeyer, J., & Dangana, J. M. (2023). Experiences Of Mental Health Problems Vulnerability, Psychological Symptoms and Coping Mechanisms of Displaced Adolescents in North-East Nigeria. African Health Sciences, 23(1), 338–348. https://doi.org/10.4314/Ahs.V23i1.36
De Cassai, A., Dost, B., Tulgar, S., & Boscolo, A. (2025). Methodological Standards for Conducting High-Quality Systematic Reviews. Biology, 14(8), 973. https://doi.org/10.3390/Biology14080973
Dedeke, I., Fakorede, O., Soyannwo, T., Osinubi, M., Adekambi, A., Ogundeyi, M., Fasiku, M., Oyewole, O., Ogunmuyiwa, S., Adesina, A., Ekundayo, A., & Eruzegbua, P. (2025). Mental Health Literacy Among Adolescents in Nigeria Exposed to A School-Based Multidimensional Intervention. Journal Of the Canadian Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 34(1), 17–27.
Demars, M. M., & Perruso, C. (2022). Mesh and Text-Word Search Strategies: Precision, Recall, and Their Implications for Library Instruction. Journal Of the Medical Library Association: JMLA, 110(1), 23–33. https://doi.org/10.5195/Jmla.2022.1283
Dieu Yin, S. Z., Low, M. K., & Mishu, M. P. (2025). School-Based Interventions to Prevent Anxiety and Depression in Children and Adolescents in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review. PLOS ONE, 20(4), Article E0316825. https://doi.org/10.1371/Journal.Pone.0316825
Edeh, N. I., Ugwoke, E. O., Anaele, E. N., Madusaba, B. M., Naboth-Odums, A., Isiwu, E. A., Olinya, T. O., Enyi, C., David, A. O., Yumma, D. C., Yeldim, T. P., Odunukwe, M. C., Victor, S. N., & Abubakar, A. (2022). Supporting Business Educators and Students Against COVID-19 Trauma Using Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Medicine, 101(14), E29133. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000029133
Egara, F. O., & Mosimege, M. (2025). Reducing Mathematics Anxiety Among Nigerian Students Using Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy: A Randomized Control Trial. School Psychology International. https://doi.org/10.1177/01430343251376777
Eifediyi, G., Ojugo, A. I., & Aluede, O. (2018). Effectiveness Of Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy in The Reduction of Examination Anxiety Among Secondary School Students in Edo State, Nigeria. Asia Pacific Journal of Counselling and Psychotherapy, 9(1), 61–76. https://doi.org/10.1080/21507686.2017.1412329
Ene, C. U., Ugwuanyi, C. S., Ejimonye, J. C., Ani, M. I., Eneogu, N. D., Ikeh, F. E., Eya, N. M., Oguguo, B. C., Ibenegbu, Q. O., Odionye, N., Monday, S., Nji, I., Kalu, I. A., Eze, B. A., Ugwu, F. C., & Nwachukwu, V. N. (2021). Effects of rational emotive occupational health coaching on work stress among academic staff of science and social science education in Nigerian universities: A randomised trial evaluation. Medicine, 100(34), e26963. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000026963
Eriksen, M. B., & Frandsen, T. F. (2018). The Impact of Patient, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome (PICO) As A Search Strategy Tool on Literature Search Quality: A Systematic Review. Journal Of the Medical Library Association: JMLA, 106(4), 420–431. https://doi.org/10.5195/Jmla.2018.345
Eseadi, C., Ilechukwu, L. C., Victor-Aigbodion, V., Sewagegn, A. A., & Amedu, A. N. (2022). Intervention For Depression Among Undergraduate Religious Education Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Medicine, 101(41), E31034. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000031034
Ewulu, I. J., Ukwueze, C. C., Oluchi, K. M. T., Eze, N. O., Ezeugwu, C. A., Nnanyelugo, C. E., & Celestine, G. V. (2024). Effect Of Interactive Media-Based Music and Art Therapies on Reduction in PTSD Symptoms in Children and Adult Victims of Abduction. Issues In Mental Health Nursing, 45(10), 1065–1073. https://doi.org/10.1080/01612840.2024.2373260
Ezegbe, B. N., Eseadi, C., Ede, M. O., Igbo, J. N., Anyanwu, J. I., Ede, K. R., Egenti, N. T., Nwokeoma, B. N., Mezieobi, D. I., Oforka, T. O., Omeje, G. N., Ugwoezuonu, A. U., Nwosu, N., Amoke, C. V., Offordile, E. E., Ezema, L. C., Ikechukwu-Ilomuanya, A. B., & Ozoemena, L. C. (2019). Impacts Of Cognitive-Behavioral Intervention on Anxiety and Depression Among Social Science Education Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Medicine, 98(15), E14935. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000014935
Ezenwaji, C. O., Aloh, H. E., Okeke, P. M. D., Osilike, C. C., Ekwealor, N. E., Koledoye, U. L., Ilechukwu, L. C., & Onwuadi, C. C. (2021). Managing Social Anxiety Among Undergraduate Adult Education and Extra-Mural Studies Students: An Intervention Study. Medicine, 100(42), E27596. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000027596
Ezeudu, F. O., Eya, N. M., Nwafor, S. C., & Ogbonna, C. S. (2020). Intervention For Depression Among Chemistry Education Undergraduates in A Nigerian University. The Journal of International Medical Research, 48(1), 300060519865064. https://doi.org/10.1177/0300060519865064
Fadele, A. A., Adebisi, Y. A., & Lucero-Prisno, D. E. (2024). Mental health in Nigeria: Current trends, challenges, and future prospects. Global Mental Health, 11, e12. https://doi.org/10.1017/gmh.2024.12
Fadele, K. P., Igwe, S. C., Toluwalogo, N. O., Udokang, E. I., Ogaya, J. B., & Lucero-Prisno, D. E., 3rd (2024). Mental Health Challenges in Nigeria: Bridging the Gap Between Demand and Resources. Global Mental Health, 11, E29. https://doi.org/10.1017/Gmh.2024.19
Gagnier, J. J., Moher, D., Boon, H., Beyene, J., & Bombardier, C. (2012). Investigating Clinical Heterogeneity in Systematic Reviews: A Methodologic Review of Guidance in The Literature. BMC Medical Research Methodology, 12, 111. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2288-12-111
Gureje, O., Oladeji, B. D., Kola, L., Bello, T., Ayinde, O., Faregh, N., Bennett, I., & Zelkowitz, P. (2022). Effect Of Intervention Delivered by Frontline Maternal Care Providers to Improve Outcome and Parenting Skills Among Adolescents with Perinatal Depression in Nigeria (The Rapid Study): A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal Of Affective Disorders, 312, 169-176. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.Jad.2022.06.032
Gureje, O., Oladeji, B. D., Montgomery, A. A., Araya, R., Bello, T., Chisholm, D., Groleau, D., Kirmayer, L. J., Kola, L., Olley, L. B., Tan, W., & Zelkowitz, P. (2019a). High- Versus Low-Intensity Interventions for Perinatal Depression Delivered by Non-Specialist Primary Maternal Care Providers in Nigeria: Cluster Randomised Controlled Trial (The EXPONATE Trial). The British Journal of Psychiatry: The Journal of Mental Science, 215(3), 528–535. https://doi.org/10.1192/Bjp.2019.4
Gureje, O., Oladeji, B. D., Montgomery, A. A., Bello, T., Kola, L., Ojagbemi, A., Chisholm, D., & Araya, R. (2019b). Effect Of a Stepped-Care Intervention Delivered by Lay Health Workers on Major Depressive Disorder Among Primary Care Patients in Nigeria (STEPCARE): A Cluster-Randomised Controlled Trial. The Lancet. Global Health, 7(7), E951–E960. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(19)30148-2
Hart, C., & Norris, S. A. (2025). Adolescent Mental Health in Sub-Saharan Africa: Crisis? What Crisis? Solution? What Solution? Global Health Action, 17(1), 2437883. https://doi.org/10.1080/16549716.2024.2437883
Higgins, J. P. T., Thomas, J., Chandler, J., Cumpston, M., Li, T., Page, M. J., & Welch, V. A. (Eds.). (2023). Cochrane handbook for systematic reviews of interventions (Version 6.4). Cochrane. www.training.cochrane.org/handbook
Ifeanyieze, F. O., Ede, K. R., Ejiofor, T. E., Onah, O., Isiwu, E. C., Nwankwo, C. U., Okadi, A. O., Ezebuiro, F., Omeje, B. A., Okwo, C., Nwachukwu, C. U., Ali, C. C., Okeme, I., & Nyakuwa, R. (2023). Psychological Intervention for Career Self-Esteem Among Students of Agricultural Education Programme. Medicine, 102(21), E33886. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000033886
Igbokwe, U. L., Onyechi, K. C. N., Ogbonna, C. S., Eseadi, C., Onwuegbuchulam, A. C., Nwajiuba, C. A., Ugodulunwa, C. C., Eze, A., Omaeze, K., Patrick, C. P., Ekechukwu, L. E., Egbe, C. I., Nnachi, R. A., & Anyaegbunam, E. N. (2019). Rational Emotive Intervention for Stress Management Among English Education Undergraduates: Implications for School Curriculum Innovation. Medicine, 98(40), E17452. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000017452
Ilechukwu, L. C., Egenti, N. T., Aloh, H. E., Uwakwe, R. C., Obande-Ogbuinya, N., Eke, C. L., Kalu, I. A., Ejionueme, L. K., & Iremeka, F. U. (2021). Rational Emotive Education for Reducing Stress of Undergraduate Students of Religious Education Program: An Experimental Study. Medicine, 100(23), E26177. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000026177
Isa, E. W., Ani, C., Bella-Awusah, T., & Omigbodun, O. (2018) Effects of Psycho-Education Plus Basic Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Strategies on Medication-Treated Adolescents with Depressive Disorder in Nigeria. Journal Of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 30(1), 11-18, https://doi.org/10.2989/17280583.2018.1424634
Iyendo, T. O., Uwajeh, P. C., Oseke, B. N., Dong, L., Adejumo, A., Umar, I., Apuke, O. D., & Gever, C. V. (2024). Effect Of Audio-Visual-Based Art and Music Therapy in Reducing Adolescents Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The Journal of Adolescent Health: Official Publication of The Society for Adolescent Medicine, 74(2), 283–291. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.Jadohealth.2023.08.056
Jia, R. M., & Stern, C. (2026). The Inclusion or Exclusion of Studies Based on Critical Appraisal Results in JBI Qualitative Systematic Reviews: An Analysis of Practices. Research Synthesis Methods, 17(2), 277–292. https://doi.org/10.1017/Rsm.2025.10042
Jibunoh, O., & Ani, C. (2022). A Controlled Clinical Trial of a Brief Psycho-Educational Intervention for Anxiety Among In-School Adolescents in Nigeria. International Journal of Mental Health, 51(1), 24–31. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207411.2021.1891362
Jidong, D. E., Ike, T. J., Taru, M. Y., Pwajok, J. Y., Nwoga, C. N., Jidong, J. E., Mwankon, S. B., Francis, C., & Husain, N. (2025). Culturally Adapted Manual-Assisted Psychological Intervention (Camapi) For Adolescents/Young People with A History of Self-Harm and Suicidal Ideation in Nigeria: A Randomised Controlled Feasibility Trial. Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, 32(3), E70098. https://doi.org/10.1002/Cpp.70098
Khosravi, M. (2026). Prevalence, Outcomes, and Effective Interventions for Anxiety Disorders in Children and Adolescents. Discover Ment Health, 6, 56. https://doi.org/10.1007/S44192-026-00411-W
Le, P. D., Eschliman, E. L., Grivel, M. M., Tang, J., Cho, Y. G., Yang, X., Tay, C., Li, T., Bass, J., & Yang, L. H. (2022). Barriers and Facilitators to Implementation of Evidence-Based Task-Sharing Mental Health Interventions in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review Using Implementation Science Frameworks. Implementation Science, 17, Article 4. https://doi.org/10.1186/S13012-021-01179-Z
Lefebvre, C., Glanville, J., Briscoe, S., Featherstone, R., Littlewood, A., Marshall, C., Metzendorf, M. I., Noel-Storr, A., Paynter, R., Rader, T., Thomas, J., & Wieland, L. S. (2023). Chapter 4: Searching for and selecting studies. In J. P. T. Higgins, J. Thomas, J. Chandler, M. Cumpston, T. Li, M. J. Page, and V. A. Welch (Eds.), Cochrane handbook for systematic reviews of interventions (Version 6.4). Cochrane. www.training.cochrane.org/handbook
Leite, D. F. B., Padilha, M. A. S., & Cecatti, J. G. (2019). Approaching literature review for academic purposes: The Literature Review Checklist. Clinics, 74, e1403. https://doi.org/10.6061/clinics/2019/e1403
Li, B., Allebeck, P., Burstöm, B., Danielsson, A. K., Degenhardt, L., Eikemo, T. A., Ferrari, A., Knudsen, A. K., Lundin, A., Manhica, H., Newton, J., Whiteford, H., Flodin, P., Sjöqvist, H., & Agardh, E. E. (2023). Educational Level and The Risk of Mental Disorders, Substance Use Disorders and Self-Harm in Different Age-Groups: A Cohort Study Covering 1.6 million Subjects in The Stockholm Region. International Journal of Methods in Psychiatric Research, 32(4), E1964. https://doi.org/10.1002/Mpr.1964
Li, J., Cui, Y., & Liu, X. (2025a). The efficacy of expressive arts therapies for depression and anxiety in adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 16, 1716481. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2025.1716481
Li, Z., Cui, Q., & Liu, X. (2025b). Systematic Review of The Effectiveness of Arts Therapy for Children and Adolescents with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Frontiers In Psychiatry, 16, Article 1716481. https://doi.org/10.3389/Fpsyt.2025.171648
Liu, B., Di, X., & Apuke, O. D. (2023). Comparative Analysis of The Effect of Interactive Audio-Visual Based Art Therapy and Music Therapy in Reducing Suicidal Ideation Among School Children Who Survived Abduction. Psychiatry Research, 327, 115408. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.Psychres.2023.115408
Lund, C., Breen, A., Flisher, A. J., Kakuma, R., Corrigall, J., Joska, J. A., Swartz, L., & Patel, V. (2010). Poverty and Common Mental Disorders in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review. Social Science and Medicine, 71(3), 517-528. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.Socscimed.2010.04.027
Martinez, C. E., Ghattas Hasbun, P. E., Salolin Vargas, V. P., García-González, O. Y., Fermin Madera, M. D., Rueda Capistrán, D. E., Campos Carmona, T., Sanchez Cruz, C., & Teran Hooper, C. (2025). A Comprehensive Guide to Conduct a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis in Medical Research. Medicine, 104(33), E41868. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000041868
Mastorci, F., Lazzeri, M. F. L., Vassalle, C., & Pingitore, A. (2024). The Transition from Childhood to Adolescence: Between Health and Vulnerability. Children, 11(8), 989. https://doi.org/10.3390/Children11080989
Mbedzi, T. E., Van Der Wath, A. E., & Moagi, M. M. (2025). Psychosocial Interventions for Families Caring for Mental Health Care Users: A Nominal Group Technique. Journal Of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, 32(5), 1131–1141. https://doi.org/10.1111/Jpm.70008
Mcgorry, P. D., Mei, C., Chanen, A., Hodges, C., Alvarez-Jimenez, M., & Killackey, E. (2022). Designing and Scaling Up Integrated Youth Mental Health Care. World Psychiatry: Official Journal of The World Psychiatric Association (WPA), 21(1), 61–76. https://doi.org/10.1002/Wps.20938
McGowan, J., Sampson, M., Salzwedel, D. M., Cogo, E., Foerster, V., & Lefebvre, C. (2016). PRESS Peer Review of Electronic Search Strategies: 2015 guideline statement. Journal of Clinical Epidemiology, 75, 40–46. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclinepi.2016.01.021
Methley, A. M., Campbell, S., Chew-Graham, C., McNally, R., & Cheraghi-Sohi, S. (2014). PICO, PICOS and SPIDER: a comparison study of specificity and sensitivity in search tools for systematic reviews. BMC Medical Research Methodology, 14(1), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2288-14-110
Mongeon, P., & Paul-Hus, A. (2016). The journal coverage of Web of Science and Scopus: A comparative analysis. Scientometrics, 106(1), 213–228. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11192-015-1765-5
Moosapour, H., Saeidifard, F., Aalaa, M., Soltani, A., & Larijani, B. (2021). The Rationale Behind Systematic Reviews in Clinical Medicine: A Conceptual Framework. Journal Of Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, 20(1), 919–929. https://doi.org/10.1007/S40200-021-00773-8
Murray, S., Murray, B., & Joubert, J. (2018). African Journals OnLine (AJOL): Providing access to African research. The Serials Librarian, 74(1–4), 164–169. https://doi.org/10.1080/0361526X.2018.1428479
Musa, Z. A., Soh, K. L., Mukhtar, F., Soh, K. Y., Oladele, T. O., & Soh, K. G. (2021a) Impact of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy on Depressive Symptoms Reduction Among Depressed Patients in Nigeria: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Issues In Mental Health Nursing, 42(7), 667-675. https://doi.org/10.1080/01612840.2020.1821139
Musa, Z. A., Soh, K. L., Mukhtar, F., Soh, K. Y., Oladele, T. O., & Soh, K. G. (2021b). Effectiveness Of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy Among Depressed Individuals with Disabilities in Nigeria: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Psychiatry Research, 296, 113680. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.Psychres.2020.113680
Natalia, N., Theresia, F., & Hardi, N. (2024). Understanding Help-Seeking Behavior from Mental Health Literacy and Mental Health Belief Perspectives: Analysis. Cermin Dunia Kedokteran, 51(12), 707–713. https://doi.org/10.55175/Cdk.V51i12.1260
Nwadi, C. L., Edeh, N. I., Ugwunwoti, E. P., Nwokike, F. O., Nneji, O. S., Anamezie, R. C., Uguru, T. O., Onubueze, F. K., Chukwu, P. N., Eya, G. M., Ikpenwa, J. N., Nsude, A. O., Ozoagu, C. G., Aka, C. P., Nwobodo, P., Animba, I. E., & Okoli, S. N. (2025). Impact Of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction in Mitigating Test Anxiety and Enhancing Academic Achievement Among Vocational Education Students at Nigerian Universities. BMC Medical Education, 25(1), 578. https://doi.org/10.1186/S12909-025-07130-W
OECD (2026a), Child, Adolescent and Youth Mental Health in the 21st Century. Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. https://doi.org/10.1787/1092c3cb-En.
OECD (2026b), The Economic Case for Preventing Mental Ill Health. OECD Health Policy Studies. https://doi.org/10.1787/16668f16-En.
Ofoegbu, T. O., Asogwa, U., Otu, M. S., Ibenegbu, C., Muhammed, A., & Eze, B. (2020). Efficacy Of Guided Internet-Assisted Intervention on Depression Reduction Among Educational Technology Students of Nigerian Universities. Medicine, 99(6), E18774. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000018774
Ogbonna, P. N., Iheanacho, P. N., Ogbonnaya, N. P., Mbadugha, C. J., Ndubuisi, I., & Chikeme, P. C. (2020). Prevalence Of Mental Illness Among Adolescents (15-18 Years) Treated at Federal Neurospsychiatric Hospital, Enugu Nigeria, From 2004 To 2013. Archives Of Psychiatric Nursing, 34(1), 7–13. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.Apnu.2019.12.008
Ogunwale, A. (2023). Implementation of the Nigerian Mental Health Act 2021: Challenges and opportunities. The Lancet Psychiatry, 10(10), 743–744. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(23)00261-4
Ojumu, B. A., Ishola, A. G., Bolarinwa, O. S., Ayanleke, B., & Ogunleye, C. A. (2025). Adapted Mental Health Literacy Intervention on Knowledge of Mental Illness Stigmatization Among Selected Secondary School Students in Ogun State, Nigeria. African Journal of Health, Nursing and Midwifery, 8(2), 1-10. https://doi.org/10.52589/AJHNMVUCAHCGE
Onwudiwe, A. O., Onyemaechi, C.I., Achebe, S. C., Philip, P.O., & Ugwu, O. A. (2025). Digital Mental Health: Integrating Psychotherapeutic Innovations and Technology—A Nigerian Perspective. Journal Of Psychology in Africa, 35(6), 843–851. https://doi.org/10.32604/Jpa.2025.069734
Op De Beeck, E., Ledegen, H., Slechten, G., Van Olmen, J., De Loof, H., Bastiaens, H., & Masquillier, C. (2025). Understanding Challenges in Healthcare Access: Qualitative Insights from Healthcare Providers and People Living in Socio-Economically Vulnerable Circumstances. International Journal for Equity in Health, 24(1), 259. https://doi.org/10.1186/S12939-025-02613-0
Osborn, T. L., Venturo-Conerly, K. E., Arango G., S., Roe, E., Rodriguez, M., Alemu, R. G., Gan, J., Wasil, A. R., Otieno, B. H., Rusch, T., Ndetei, D. M., Wasanga, C., Schleider, J. L., & Weisz, J. R. (2021). Effect of Shamiri Layperson-Provided Intervention Versus Study Skills Control Intervention for Depression and Anxiety Symptoms in Adolescents in Kenya: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Psychiatry, 78(8), 829–837. https://doi.org/10.1001/Jamapsychiatry.2021.1129
Oud, M., De Winter, L., Vermeulen-Smit, E., Bodden, D., Nauta, M., Stone, L., Van Den Heuvel, M., Al Taher, R., De Graaf, I., Kendall, T., Engels, R., & Stikkelbroek, Y. (2019). Effectiveness Of CBT For Children and Adolescents with Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Regression Analysis. European Psychiatry, 57, 33–45. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.Eurpsy.2018.12.008
Ozota, G. O., Sabastine, R. N., Uduji, F. C., & Okonkwo, V. C. (2024). Nigeria Mental Health Law: Challenges and Implications for Mental Health Services. The South African Journal of Psychiatry: SAJP: The Journal of The Society of Psychiatrists of South Africa, 30, 2134. https://doi.org/10.4102/Sajpsychiatry.V30i0.2134
Page, M. J., Mckenzie, J. E., Bossuyt, P. M., Boutron, I., Hoffmann, T. C., Mulrow, C. D. Et al. (2021). The PRISMA 2020 Statement: An Updated Guideline for Reporting Systematic Reviews, BMJ, 372, N71 https://doi.org/10.1136/Bmj.N71
Pulerwitz, J., Gottert, A., Tun, W., Eromhonsele, A. F., Oladimeji, P. L., Shoyemi, E., Akoro, M., Ndeloa, C., & Adedimeji, A. (2024). Reducing Stigma and Promoting HIV Wellness/Mental Health of Sexual and Gender Minorities: RCT Results from A Group-Based Programme in Nigeria. Journal Of the International AIDS Society, 27(6), E26256. https://doi.org/10.1002/Jia2.26256
Rethlefsen, M. L., Kirtley, S., Waffenschmidt, S., Ayala, A. P., Moher, D., Page, M. J., Koffel, J. B., & PRISMA-S Group. (2021). PRISMA-S: An extension to the PRISMA Statement for reporting literature searches in systematic reviews. Systematic Reviews, 10(1), 39. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-020-01542-z
Rickwood, D., Mceachran, J., Saw, A., Telford, N., Trethowan, J., & Mcgorry, P. (2023). Sixteen Years of Innovation in Youth Mental Healthcare: Outcomes for Young People Attending Australia’s Headspace Centre Services. PLOS ONE, 18(6), Article E0282040. https://doi.org/10.1371/Journal.Pone.0282040
Schlack, R., Peerenboom, N., Neuperdt, L., Junker, S., & Beyer, A. K. (2021). The Effects of Mental Health Problems in Childhood and Adolescence in Young Adults: Results of The Kiggs Cohort. Journal Of Health Monitoring, 6(4), 3–19. https://doi.org/10.25646/8863
Shipurut, G. N. (2024). Traditional and Religious Beliefs on Mental Illness and Help-Seeking Behaviour in Ife Central LGA, Ogun State. International Journal of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences, 2(3), 450-465. https://doi.org/10.58578/Ijhess.V2i3.4195
Shipurut, M., Adewuya, A. O., & Bello, T. (2024). Supernatural attributions and traditional healing pathways in youth psychiatric illness in West Africa. Transcultural Psychiatry, 61(2), 215–228.
Sofi, S. A., & Yasmin, E. (2024). Out-Of-Pocket Health Expenditure and Associated Factors: Insights from National Health Accounts (NHA) Using Panel Data Analysis. Inquiry: A Journal of Medical Care Organization, Provision and Financing, 61, 469580241309903. https://doi.org/10.1177/00469580241309903
SANDH, (2023). National Mental Health Policy Framework and Strategic Plan 2023–2030. South African National Department of Health. Https://Www.Health.Gov.Za/Wp-Content/Uploads/2024/02/National-Mental-Health-Policy-Framework-and-Strategic-Plan-2023-2030.Pdf (Accessed: 29/07/2026)
Tang, X., Zeng, Z., Huang, H., & Symonds, J. (2026). Quality Appraisal Tools for Quantitative, Qualitative, and Mixed-Methods Studies: A Review and A Brief New Checklist. ECNU Review of Education, 9(3).
Tareke, M., Asrat Yirdaw, B., Gebeyehu, A., Gelaye, B., & Azale, T. (2023). Effectiveness Of School-Based Psychological Interventions for The Treatment of Depression, Anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Among Adolescents in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. PLOS ONE, 18(11), Article E0293988. https://doi.org/10.1371/Journal.Pone.0293988
Taylor, T., Diamond, M., Rizoglou, A., & Sarri, G. (2022, November 6-9). Data Extraction Templates in Systematic Literature Reviews: How Systematic Are We? ISPOR Europe, Conference.
Ugwuanyi, C. S., Ede, M. O., Onyishi, C. N., Ossai, O. V., Nwokenna, E. N., Obikwelu, L. C., Ikechukwu-Ilomuanya, A., Amoke, C. V., Okeke, A. O., Ene, C. U., Offordile, E. E., Ozoemena, L. C., & Nweke, M. L. (2020). Effect Of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy with Music Therapy in Reducing Physics Test Anxiety Among Students as Measured by Generalized Test Anxiety Scale. Medicine, 99(17), E16406. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000016406
Ugwuanyi, C. S., Okeke, C. I. O., Agboeze, M. U., Igwe, N. J., Eya, N. M., Ejimonye, J. C., Oguguo, B. C., Ene, C. U., Chukwu, C. L., Obiozor, E. E., Agboeze, M. N., Nwachukwu, R. U., Koledoye, U. L., Ibenegbu, Q. O., Ikeh, F. E., Sampson, M., Attah, F. O., & Ugwuanyi, C. K. (2020). Impacts Of Cognitive Behavior Therapy on Occupational Stress Among Science and Social Science Education Facilitators in Open and Distance Learning Centers and Its Implications for Community Development: A Randomized Trial Group. Medicine, 99(41), E22677. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000022677
Ugwuozor, F. O., Otu, M. S., & Mbaji, I. N. (2021). Critical Thinking Intervention for Stress Reduction Among Undergraduates in The Nigerian Universities. Medicine, 100(11), E25030. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000025030
UNICEF. (2022). Promoting and Protecting Mental Health in Schools and Learning Environments: A Briefing Note for National Governments. Https://Www.Unicef.org/Media/126821/File/Promoting%20and%20protecting%20mental%20health%20in%20schools%20and%20learning%20environments.Pdf (Accessed: 12/09/2026)
Venturo-Conerly, K. E., Osborn, T. L., Rusch, T., Ochuku, B. K., Johnson, N. E., Van Der Markt, A., Wasanga, C. M., & Weisz, J. R. (2025). Testing The Shamiri Intervention and Its Components with Kenyan Adolescents During The COVID-19 Pandemic: Outcomes of A Universal, Five-Arm Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal Of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 64(7), 786–798. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.Jaac.2024.04.015
Victor-Aigbodion, V., Eseadi, C., Ardi, Z., Sewagegn, A. A., Ololo, K., Abonor, L. B., Aloh, H. E., Falade, T. A., & Effanga, O. A. (2023). Effectiveness Of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy in Reducing Depression Among Undergraduate Medical Students. Medicine, 102(4), E32724. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000032724
Virk, A., Nelson, E.-U., & Dele-Adedeji, I. (2023). The Challenge of Youth Unemployment in Nigeria. Journal Of International and Comparative Social Policy, 39(3), 319–329. https://doi.org/10.1017/Ics.2024.4
Wada, Y. H., Raji, M. O., & Gureje, O. (2021a). Mental health services in Nigeria: The challenge of human resources and community integration. International Journal of Mental Health Systems, 15(1), 1–9.
Wada, Y. H., Rajwani, L., Anyam, E., Karikari, E., Njikizana, M., Srour, L., & Khalid, G. M. (2021b). Mental Health in Nigeria: A Neglected Issue in Public Health. Public Health in Practice, 2, 100166. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.Puhip.2021.100166
Wahdi, A. E., Astrini, Y. P., Setyawan, A., Shoshanna, L. F., Astha, R., Mengmeng, L., Yohannes, D. W., Vu M. L., Joemer, C. M., James, G. S., Siswanto, A. W., & Holly, E. E. (2025). Mental Health Service Use Among Adolescents in Three Low- and Middle-Income Countries: An Analysis of The National Adolescent Mental Health Surveys. Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health, 19(Suppl 1), 84. https://doi.org/10.1186/S13034-025-00924-2
Wainberg, M. L., Scorza, P., Shultz, J. M., Helpman, L., Mootz, J. J., Johnson, K. A., Neria, Y., Bradford, J. E., Oquendo, M. A., & Arbuckle, M. R. (2017). Challenges and Opportunities in Global Mental Health: A Research-To-Practice Perspective. Current Psychiatry Reports, 19(5), 28. https://doi.org/10.1007/S11920-017-0780-Z
Whittingham, C.E., Pilonieta, P., & Washburn, E. K. (2024), Selecting A Literacy Intervention and Planning for Implementation: A Guide. Read Teach, 77, 949-957. https://doi.org/10.1002/Trtr.2323
WHO, (2025). Mental Health of Adolescents. WHO. Https://Www.Who.Int/News-Room/Fact-Sheets/Detail/Adolescent-Mental-Health
WHO Regional Office for Africa. (2025, October 10). Nigeria Strengthens Mental Health Response Using Public Health Perspective. Https://Www.Afro.Who.Int/Countries/Nigeria/News/Nigeria-Strengthens-Mental-Health-Response-Using-Public-Health-Perspective
WHO, (2020). Guidelines on mental health promotive and preventive interventions for adolescents: Helping adolescents thrive. World Health Organization.
WHO, (2020). Guidelines on mental health promotive and preventive interventions for adolescents: Helping adolescents thrive. World Health Organization.
WHO, (2022). World Mental Health Report: Transforming Mental Health for All. WHO. Https://Www.Who.Int/Publications/I/Item/9789240049338
World Health Assembly. (2024). Strengthening Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Before, During and After Armed Conflicts, Natural and Human-Caused Disasters and Health and Other Emergencies (Resolution WHA77.3). World Health Organization. Https://Apps.Who.Int/Gb/Ebwha/Pdf_Files/WHA77/A77_ACONF11-En.Pdf
WHO, (2020). Guidelines On Mental Health Promotive and Preventive Interventions for Adolescents: Helping Adolescents Thrive. Https://Www.Who.Int/Docs/Default-Source/Mental-Health/Guidelines-On-Mental-Health-Promotive-and-Preventive-Interventions-For-Adolescents-Hat.Pdf
WHO, (2021). Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013–2030. Https://Iris.Who.Int/Server/Api/Core/Bitstreams/69921758-6229-49ba-Bd3d-C24736e35829/Content (Accessed: 12/07/2026).
Worldometer, (2026, September 14). Nigeria Population. https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/nigeria-population/
Xiaolin, D., Linlin, F., & Destiny Apuke, O. (2025). Experimenting The Effect of Interactive Television-Based Music Combined with Art Therapy to Curtail the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms in Children. Psychology, Health and Medicine, 1–22. https://doi.org/10.1080/13548506.2025.2587256
Xu, J., Akhter, S., & Apuke, O. D. (2025). The Effectiveness of Combining Interactive Media Based Cognitive Behaviour Therapy with Art and Music Therapies for Ameliorating the Generalised Anxiety Disorder of Children Exposed to Abduction. Psychiatry Research, 349, 116498. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.Psychres.2025.116498
Zhang, L., Wan, R., Iyendo, T. O., Apuke, O. D., & Tunca, E. A. (2023). A Randomized Control Trial Establishing the Effectiveness of Using Interactive Television-Based Art, Music, and Poetry Therapies for Treating the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder of Children Exposed to Traumatic Events. Psychiatry Research, 330, 115582. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.Psychres.2023.115582
Downloads
Published
Issue
Section
License
Copyright (c) 2026 Awosanya, Adejumoke, Kwapnoe Aaron Peter, Celestine Kpurugbara, Global Public Health
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
