International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR)

Background: Mental health challenges among undergraduates are a growing global concern, with anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation prevalent. In Namibia, academic pressure, financial hardship, and social adjustment difficulties intensifies these concerns. Despite this, there is a gap in research on the practices of mental health providers, in early identification students experiencing of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.
Objective: The study explored the practices of mental health service providers in the early identification and support for undergraduates facing mental health challenges.
Method: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted with mental health providers across six campuses of the two public universities in Namibia. Using semi-structured interviews, the study examined the practices of mental health providers in the early identification of students at risk of mental health conditions. Data were analysed following the six steps of Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis using Atlas.ti.8.
Result: Six primary themes and seventeen sub-themes emerged from the interviews. The themes included: ‘institutional gaps, peer-led early detection, stigma and cultural resistance, academic collaboration, informal support networks, and socio-economic vulnerabilities.
Conclusion: Mental health providers face challenges, including stigma, staff shortages, lack of mental health facilities and low engagement of academic staff in mental health activities. Unique contribution: The study’s findings highlight the need for comprehensive and integrated mental health support for students. University mental health experts should actively promote mental health screening by identifying and assisting students to prevent mental health crises like suicide.
Key Recommendation: The study recommends coordinating mental health support with academic staff engagement to facilitate the early identification and support affected students.