Psychobiological factors and mental illnesses among youths in Mityana General Hospital, Mityana district. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/8dc34a48Abstract
Background:
Mental health represents a critical public health challenge, with the majority of lifetime psychiatric disorders emerging during the early stages of development. This study aimed to determine the biological and psychological factors contributing to the occurrence of mental illness among the youth attending Mityana General Hospital in Mityana District.
Methodology:
A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed, with a quantitative approach for data collection. Forty (40) patients were sampled conveniently. Data was collected using questionnaires, and analyzed quantitatively using Microsoft excel that helped to generate figures and tables.
Results:
The study involved more, 57.5% females than 42.5% males (42.5%). The majority (23) 57.5% being between 22 and 26 years, followed by (9) 22.5% between 17-21 years, (6) 15% around 27 years and above, and a few (2) 5% were in 12-16 years. The most (26) 65% were single, (9) 22.5% were married, (4)10% were divorced, and (1)2.5% were widowed. Biological factors like genetics (30) 75%, chronic physical illness (25) 62.5%, and drug abuse (28) 70%. Psychological factors like stress (22) 55%, racial discrimination (30) 75%, early motherhood/marriage (27) 67.5%, sexual violence (32) 80%, major losses and death of a beloved one (36) 90% as the main factors contributing to the occurrence of mental illness.
Conclusion:
Genetics, chronic physical illness, drug abuse, social stigma, culture, poor parenting style, stress, racial discrimination, early motherhood and marriage, sexual violence, and major losses were the main causes of mental illness among the youth.
Recommendation:
There should be a comprehensive review of mental health in all communities of Uganda in order to address the burden. Health promotion, which is a holistic approach to community health care through strategies and actions directed at strengthening the skills of individuals, changing social, environmental, and economic conditions.
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