Vol. 2012 No. 1 (2012)

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Adolescent Mental Health Services Utilization in South African Universities: A Contemporary Review

Sibusiso Mngeni, Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) Khumalo Sekhukunle, Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) Mametsho Phakathi, Department of Epidemiology, South African Institute for Medical Research (SAIMR) Nomonde Nkabinde, Department of Public Health, University of Cape Town
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18944212
Published: November 8, 2012

Abstract

Adolescence is a critical period of development characterized by significant psychological changes and challenges. In South Africa, universities serve as hubs for academic learning and research, but they also provide essential services to support students' mental health. The study employed a qualitative approach involving a comprehensive literature review, surveying university administrators, and interviews with student support staff. Data were analysed using thematic analysis to identify common themes and patterns of service utilization. A key finding was the underutilization of mental health services by students, particularly in rural universities where access barriers are more pronounced (45% reported no use). Despite growing awareness about adolescent mental health issues, there remains a substantial gap in accessing appropriate support services. Universities need to implement targeted interventions and policies to enhance service utilization. University administrators should prioritise the integration of mental health education into curricula and advocate for more accessible and culturally sensitive services. Collaboration with community-based organizations can also improve service provision. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.

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How to Cite

Sibusiso Mngeni, Khumalo Sekhukunle, Mametsho Phakathi, Nomonde Nkabinde (2012). Adolescent Mental Health Services Utilization in South African Universities: A Contemporary Review. African Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (Medical), Vol. 2012 No. 1 (2012). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18944212

Keywords

African GeographyAdolescent PsychologyMental Health ServicesUniversity SettingQualitative ResearchQuantitative AnalysisYouth Counseling

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Vol. 2012 No. 1 (2012)
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African Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (Medical)

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