COUNSELLORS PERCIEVED RISK FACTORS AND COUNSELLING STRATEGIES IN MANAGING ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEM IN ANAMBRA STATE

Abstract

This paper focused on the risk factors and counselling strategies in managing adolescent mental health problem in Anambra state. The study adopted a survey research design. Two research questions guided the study. The whole population served as sample. A total of 119 counsellors were used for the study. Questionnaire titled ‘’Risk Factors and Counselling Strategies in Managing Adolescent Mental Health Problem Questionnaire’’ (RFCSMAMHPQ) was used in collecting the data. The questionnaire is made up of 25 items with reliability estimate of 0.80 while administration of the instrument was done on face to face. Data collected were analyzed using arithmetic mean. The findings indicated that authoritarian and permissive parenting styles, poor school connectedness among others are the risk factors of adolescent mental health problem while cognitive behavioural therapy, school connectedness and authoritative parenting style are among the counselling strategies in managing adolescent mental health problem. Based on the findings, it was recommended that parents should be sensitized on the need for authoritative parenting style that enhances mental well being of adolescents. Social connectedness through exercise should be encouraged. Cognitive behaviour therapy should be added in the teacher/counsellor education for effective use in counselling the adolescents.