The Prevalence of Depression among the Youths as an Aftermath of the Internal Insurgency Attacks in Maiduguri, Nigeria

Abstract

In recent years the issues of crisis and its consequences as perpetrated by insurgents have constituted major growing health problems in developing African countries. The city of Maiduguri, in the North eastern part of Nigeria, has suffered persistent insurgency attacks that have claimed thousands of lives. This empirical study investigates the prevalence of depression and its correlates among students of the University of Maiduguri. The survey was conducted about six months following the declaration of 'state of emergency' imposed on the three North eastern states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe in May 2013. The students who remained in the city during and after the crisis were used. Data was collected by way of administering questionnaires to the respondents. About 70% of the subjects showed some degree of evidence of depression. Females and those who lost first degree relatives were more likely to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), being a precursor of depression. So it's the conclusion of this research that these high risk individuals would need special attention and particular support.