PERCEIVED EFFECTS OF THE ECONOMIC RECESSION ON YOUTHS' MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING: EVIDENCE FROM PRESIDENT TINUBU ADMINISTRATION

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

Studies have shown that economic recessions have a substantial impact on the health and overall well-being of the population, especially among disadvantaged populations (Oshea 2022). In nations most severely impacted by the economic downturn that commenced in 2020, the quality of life and work circumstances have significantly deteriorated (Pusha et al., 2022). The labour markets experienced a decline in global growth, leading to rising unemployment rates and a more uncertain work environment. Approximately 50% of the European population indicated that they were acquainted with an individual who had become unemployed due to the crisis (Ken et al., 2023). 

The health of populations is influenced by various factors such as the socioeconomic background, welfare systems, labour markets, public policies, and demographic characteristics of countries (White, 2019). It is quite likely that alterations in these crucial factors can have an impact on the mental health of communities (Chukwdi & Markson, 2020). Hence, it is imperative to consider mental health as a susceptible domain during an economic downturn, particularly if there was already a high prevalence of mental diseases prior to the onset of the crisis (Ose et al., 2021). 

Mental health, as defined by the American Psychological Association (2017), refers to a state of mind that is marked by emotional well-being, positive behavioural adaptation, minimal anxiety and debilitating symptoms, and the ability to form positive relationships and effectively manage the typical challenges and pressures of life. According to Omote (2017), psychological health refers to the whole mental and physical conditions of an individual that enable them to perform adequately and maintain a balanced state in their everyday life. Mental health is defined by one's capacity to experience self-love and love for others, maintain productivity, experience happiness, effectively cope with any difficulties in life, and feel contentment with one's overall existence. The concept of mental health among Nigerian adolescents refers to their capacity to adapt and navigate through diverse life events with adaptability and a clear sense of direction (Shina, 2022). Put simply, the mental well-being of Nigerian young will be evident in their capacity to establish equilibrium within themselves, with others, and with their surroundings (Ugonna, 2023).

However, several writers have contended that the relationship between economies experiencing contraction and levels of well-being can exhibit a combination of positive and negative effects (Ken et al., 2023). The ongoing economic downturn in Nigeria is expected to worsen and intensify mental health issues due to increasing socioeconomic factors such as unemployment, financial stress, debt, and job-related difficulties (Jones et al., 2020). Individuals experiencing significant life transitions are more susceptible to mental health issues (Ken et al., 2023). Additionally, it has been postulated that economic strain and joblessness exert a catastrophic influence on young individuals (Ronne et al., 2023). This is seen by the prevalence of youth suicide in Nigeria during the past year.

Onyeze (2017) posits that work is a form of creative activity that enables individuals to acquire a means of sustenance through employment. An employed individual receives compensation in the form of income or pay, which allows them to support themselves and meet their needs. Having a job that pays well enables an individual to confidently make important decisions within their family and community. Macrotrends, an economic data organisation, defines unemployment as the proportion of the labour force that is not employed but actively looking for job. Unemployment refers to the condition of being without a job that provides an income or wage. Poverty is the condition of not having enough financial resources to support oneself, parents, and siblings. It is an economic issue that is rapidly emerging as one of the most widespread concerns among Nigerian youngsters today. The youth generation in Nigeria, which makes up a considerable proportion of the country's demographic, is experiencing serious economic challenges (Chidi & Igboukwu, 2024). Pervasive difficulties include elevated unemployment rates, restricted work prospects, and the escalating cost of living. The economic volatility has intensified mental health problems among young people, resulting in heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. The combination of future uncertainty and economic hardship has significantly affected their general well-being (Bassey et al., 2024).

The Chief Medical Director of the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital in Yaba, Lagos State, Dr. Owoeye, reported a 100% surge in admission cases at the facility in 2023. Owoeye (2023) ascribed the rise in mental health disorders to the economic and socioeconomic issues prevailing in the nation. In 2024, a documented example of suicide had occurred, which was directly linked to socio-economic factors. Three cases were reported in the fourth quarter of 2023 (Punch, 2024). Regarding the matter, Obindo (2024), the President of the Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria, remarked that the economic circumstances, which have a substantial impact on individuals' capacity to fulfil their requirements, would additionally make them more susceptible to stress.

Economic recessions have extensive effects on society, frequently intensifying preexisting difficulties and generating novel ones. Young people, being a crucial group, are more susceptible to the negative consequences of economic downturns. Since assuming office in May 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration has had substantial economic difficulties in Nigeria. The administration of President Tinubu has been characterised by endeavours to stabilise and rejuvenate the economy through a range of policies and reforms (Gbenga, 2023). The measures encompass the elimination of subsidies, modifications to taxes, and efforts to enhance local industries and jobs. Notwithstanding these endeavours, the nation has had enduring economic challenges, resulting in a recession that has impacted all segments of society, especially the younger generation. This study investigates the perceived impact of the economic recession on the mental health and well-being of Nigerian youths during this period.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The economic downturn of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's tenure, which commenced in May 2023, has had far-reaching impacts on different segments of the Nigerian population. Out of all these groups, the youth population has been specifically impacted. The recession has resulted in heightened unemployment, financial volatility, and diminished prospects, hence exerting a substantial influence on the mental health and overall well-being of Nigerian youths.

The economic downturn has worsened the already elevated levels of unemployment among Nigerian young people. A significant number of youths are facing difficulties in securing employment, resulting in financial instability and heightened levels of stress (Kingsley et al., 2023). The dearth of job chances also constrains their capacity to acquire work experience and cultivate skills, so impeding their future potential. As stated by Badejo & Ikenna (2023), unemployment has emerged as a significant issue afflicting the lives of young Nigerians, leading to a rise in militancy, violent crimes, kidnappings, restlessness, and socially deviant behaviour. Youth unemployment has severe psychological and economic consequences for both individuals and society as a whole.

Jegede (2024) has expressed concern about the detrimental impact of economic despair on the mental health of Nigerians. He advocates for a comprehensive approach that encompasses individual, community, and society levels to promptly tackle this issue. The economic troubles have resulted in a significant increase in mental health problems among young people, such as depression, anxiety, and stress-related diseases. The ambiguity over the future, coupled with financial adversity, significantly impacts their mental well-being (Ekpe, 2024). Jegede (2024) asserted that economic challenges such as diminished productivity, insufficient social safety nets, unemployment, and healthcare expenses, along with social issues like marital instability, fear, anger, and erosion of community unity, were progressively exerting a significant influence on the mental well-being of Nigerian youth and the population as a whole. The economic downturn has resulted in heightened levels of stress and anxiety, substance misuse, depressive symptoms, suicide, and limited availability of mental health care services (Richard et al., 2024). Therefore, the necessity for this investigation arises.

Objectives of the study

The primary objective of this study is to critically assess Perceived effects of the economic recession on youths' mental health and well-being: evidence from President Tinubu administration. Specific objectives of this study are to:

To evaluate the perceived impact of the economic recession on the mental health of Nigerian youths.

To explore the various factors contributing to the well-being of youths in the context of the economic recession.

To identify the coping strategies employed by youths to manage mental health challenges during the recession.

To offer recommendations for policymakers to support youth mental health and well-being during economic recessions

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions will be answered in this study:

What is the impact of the economic recession on the mental health of Nigerian youths?

What are the various factors contributing to the well-being of youths in the context of the economic recession?

What is the coping strategies employed by youths to manage mental health challenges during the recession?

What are the recommendations for policymakers to support youth mental health and well-being during economic recessions?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

The following research hypotheses will validate this study;

Ho: Economic recession has no significant impact on the mental health of Nigerian youths.

Ha: Economic recession has significant impact on the mental health of Nigerian youths.

1.6 Significance of the study

The importance of this study rests in its examination of how the economic downturn under the Tinubu Administration affects the mental health and well-being of young people. The study seeks to inform policies, enhance mental health support systems, and promote resilience among young individuals confronting economic stress by emphasising perceived consequences and coping methods. The study will function as a fundamental reference point for the government, policymakers, Nigerian young, students, and intellectuals.

Moreover, through an examination of the impact of economic downturn on the mental health of young people, this study can provide valuable insights for the development of policies and interventions that aim to enhance the resilience and mental well-being of youth. This include tactics for improving mental health services, fostering economic prospects, and mitigating pressures linked to financial adversity. Economic recessions have a broader impact on the overall well-being of society, extending beyond economic indicators and affecting the mental health outcomes of young individuals. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of these effects can assist policymakers and healthcare practitioners in formulating specific strategies to minimise adverse consequences and enhance mental fortitude. The study's findings can provide valuable insights for developing long-term strategies to enhance mental health resilience among young people. These strategies may include educational initiatives, skills training programmes, the establishment of strong social support networks, and the implementation of policy frameworks that prioritise mental well-being in conjunction with economic growth. 

Furthermore, this study contributes to the scholarly body of knowledge on the mental well-being of young individuals, the impact of economic downturns, and the formulation of governmental strategies. This case study serves as a valuable reference for researchers and practitioners investigating the effects of economic downturns on mental health.

1.7 Scope of the study

Broadly, this study focus is to critically assess Perceived effects of the economic recession on youths' mental health and well-being: evidence from President Tinubu administration. Specifically, this study seeks to evaluate the perceived impact of the economic recession on the mental health of Nigerian youths and explore the various factors contributing to the well-being of youths in the context of the economic recession. 

Further, this study will focus identifying the coping strategies employed by youths to manage mental health challenges during the recession and it also seeks to offer recommendations for policymakers to support youth mental health and well-being during economic recessions.

1.8 Limitations of the study

As is common in all human endeavours, the researchers faced minor limitations when conducting the study. The main limitation was the lack of extensive literature on the subject, as there is limited data available for assess Perceived effects of the economic recession on youths' mental health and well-being: evidence from President Tinubu administration. Consequently, a significant amount of time and effort was necessary to locate the appropriate materials, books, or information and to gather data. 

Additionally, this study is constrained by its small sample size and narrow geographical scope, focusing just on Nigeria. Consequently, the results of this study are not applicable for generalization, thereby leaving room for further research. 

Additionally, the researcher's limitations were primarily due to financial constraints, as they are a student and do not have a source of income to sustain themselves. It was challenging to afford transportation expenses to and from the study location due to the high cost of transportation, which is influenced by inflation in Nigeria today.

Furthermore, the researcher faced a time constraint due to the need to do this research while also fulfilling the obligations of attending lectures and other educational activities.

1.9 Definition of terms

Economic recession: Economic recession as: "a significant decline in economic activity spread across the economy, lasting more than a few months, normally visible in real GDP, real income, employment, industrial production, and wholesale-retail sales

Inflation: Inflation is the rate of increase in prices over a given period of time. Inflation is typically a broad measure, such as the overall increase in prices or the increase in the cost of living in a country.

Economic hardship:  economic hardship refers to difficulty caused by having too little money or too few resources.

Mental health: Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices.