Adolescent Mental Well-Being: The Impact of Insufficient Mental Care Awareness among Adolescents in Donga Mantung Division, North West of Cameroon

Abstract

Mental health issues among adolescents have become a growing concern globally; it is thus crucial to understand the specific challenges faced by adolescents to develop targeted interventions to address their mental health needs. This study examines the impact of insufficient mental care awareness on adolescents’ mental well-being in Donga Mantung Division in Cameroon, focusing on the consequences and effective intervention strategies. The research assessed mental care awareness among adolescents, identified the consequences of insufficient mental care awareness on mental well-being, explored factors contributing to the lack of awareness, and identified effective intervention strategies. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving surveys, interviews, and focus groups to collect data from adolescents in Donga Mantung Division. The study highlights challenges such as a lack of awareness and education programs, stigma, and barriers to accessing mental health services. The findings and recommendations seek to foster the development of targeted interventions and policies to improve mental care awareness among adolescents and enhance their overall mental well-being.