Ethical Concerns of Depression among Youths: A Socio-Religious Implication in Contemporary Nigeria

Depression among youths in contemporary Nigeria has become an increasingly prominent social and religious issue. This study explores the ethical concerns surrounding depression, particularly focusing on the socio-religious implications it has in Nigerian society. The study investigates how societal and religious norms shape the perception, treatment, and overall response to youth depression in Lagos State, with a particular emphasis on the stigmatisation of mental health issues, the lack of adequate mental health resources, and the roles religious institutions play in either mitigating or exacerbating these challenges. The study used a quantitative research approach, surveying 300 respondents using a structured questionnaire. The survey focused on their economic stage, socio-physical development, mental formation, and depression experiences. The sample included diverse ethnic groups and religious affiliations. The questionnaire explored attitudes towards depression, religious views on mental health, stigmatisation of depression, and the role of religious institutions in addressing mental health issues. It was discovered that youth depression in Lagos State is common and has an impact on relationships and professional, academic, socio-economic and religious performance, with sobbing, impatience, delusional and behavioural impairments, nagging, suicidal ideation, and mental health decline increasing daily among youths in Nigeria. 93% of the participants seek mental health counselling and therapy, 66.33% from clergy underscores the dual reliance on both clinical and spiritual sources for mental health support, and 48% rely on friends/family for support, counselling and intervention. The research recommended that the Nigerian youths need support through skill development, entrepreneurship, and career advisory programmes. Community awareness campaigns, clergy/cleric training, and peer support groups are also crucial. The government should establish mental health hotlines, teach community leaders, provide education, and integrate mobile health services. Finally, Nigeria's youth depression is influenced by socio-religious dynamics and ethical considerations, necessitating specialised interventions such as youth empowerment, awareness campaigns, clergy training, and readily available mental health infrastructure.