The urgent need for a multi-dimensional campus mental health intervention in Nigerian universities: The case of unilorin tim-healthcare programme

Abstract

The mental health of university students has become a significant cause for worry and public health concerns
globally. Studies suggest that many mental health problems for example, depression, anxiety, phobia, suicidal
behaviour, and substance use disorder among others, typically arise within the age bracket of 15-25 years, which
coincides with the period when many individuals are pursuing higher education. Implementing structural
interventions and broad organizational reforms to address student mental health has proven to be advantageous.
The potential benefits that can be achieved from investing in students' mental health are improved academic
performance, student success, and a reduction in discontinuous school enrolment or dropout especially in resource-limited environments. This report presents a research-based multidisciplinary mental health program being
implemented at a Nigerian University called the University of Ilorin Tertiary Institution Mental Health
Programme (Unilorin TIM Healthcare Programme), aimed at addressing the mental health needs of tertiary
institution students. The programme which incorporates preventive education such as enlightenment programs on
campus, workshops on stress management, resilience building, and coping strategies, amongst other initiatives has
recorded significant benefits with positive feedback from the beneficiaries. It is hoped that it will be a model for
other institutions within and outside Nigeria.
Newborn jaundice (NNJ), especially due to ABO incompatibility, is a major global health concern. Phototherapy is
the standard treatment, with exchange transfusions reserved for severe cases. However, in some babies these
therapies may be ineffective, requiring additional immunomodulatory treatments. Limited access to these.