Mental health literacy programs in Nigeria: A comprehensive scoping review of interventions, challenges and outcomes

Mental health literacy (MHL) is a critical component of public health that enhances individuals' knowledge and attitudes toward mental well-being, encourages early help-seeking behaviors, and reduces stigma. In Nigeria, where mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) remain prevalent, MHL programs have emerged as essential interventions. This review aims to analyze interventions, challenges, and outcomes of mental health literacy programs in Nigeria.

Following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a systematic search was conducted across databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, African Journals Online (AJOL), Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. Studies published between 2004 and 2024, focusing on mental health literacy interventions in Nigeria, were included. A total of 20 studies met the inclusion criteria, and data were extracted on intervention types, target populations, implementation challenges, and outcomes.

The review identified a variety of mental health literacy programs, including school-based, community-driven, and university-led initiatives. School-based interventions targeting adolescents and teachers demonstrated significant improvements in mental health awareness and stigma reduction. Community-based programs, particularly those involving religious leaders and internally displaced persons (IDPs), also showed promise in shifting cultural perceptions of mental health. However, challenges such as persistent stigma, limited funding, resource constraints, and resistance to programmes adoption hindered their effectiveness. Despite these barriers, most interventions positively influenced knowledge, attitudes, and help-seeking behaviors.

Mental health literacy programmes in Nigeria have demonstrated potential in improving awareness and reducing stigma; however, their sustainability remains a challenge due to cultural barriers and resource limitations. There is a need for long-term evaluations, increased policy integration, and innovative delivery models, such as digital interventions, to enhance accessibility and impact. Future research should prioritize rural and underrepresented populations, ensuring that mental health literacy efforts are inclusive, scalable, and culturally responsive.