“Voices from the Ward”: Exploring the social and emotional experiences of adolescents and young adults in psychiatric inpatient care

Voices from the Ward": Exploring the social and emotional experiences of adolescents and young adults in psychiatric inpatient care A dolescence and young adulthood represent critical de- velopmental periods marked by significant physical, psychological, emotional, and social transitions.Mental health conditions during these life stages are widespread and, if left unaddressed, can have profound and lasting impacts on educational achievement, interpersonal relationships, social functioning, and long-term quality of life. [1,2]Globally, it is estimated that approximately 14% of adolescents live with a mental health condition, with depression, anxiety, and behavioural disorders among the leading causes of illness and disability in this group. [3,4]A recent meta-analysis by Polanczyk et al. [5,6] further revealed that nearly one in five adolescents worldwide Objectives: This study explores the lived experiences of adolescents and young adults in a Nigerian psychiatric inpatient setting, focusing on the interplay of cultural beliefs, stigma, coping mechanisms, and systemic barriers.The aim is to inform the development of culturally sensitive, family-centred, and systemically supported interventions for this vulnerable population.Methods: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis design was employed to examine the experiences of 28 participants aged 13 to 28 years diagnosed with various mental health conditions.Data were collected over nine months through in-depth semi-structured interviews.The analysis involved an iterative process incorporating reflexivity, member checking, and validation to ensure credibility and contextual relevance. Results:The findings revealed evolving understandings of mental health, as participants transitioned from culturally rooted misconceptions to biomedical frameworks.Social relationships were significantly shaped by stigma-induced isolation, shifting familial roles, and mixed peer interactions within the hospital environment.Participants employed various coping mechanisms, including reliance on spirituality and creative outlets, but highlighted the unmet need for structured psychological support.The therapeutic environment was both a source of safety and a challenge, with participants navigating overcrowding, lack of privacy, and inconsistent interactions with staff.These narratives underscored the complex interplay of cultural beliefs, systemic barriers, and individual resilience in shaping mental health experiences. Conclusion:The study highlights the need for culturally tailored psychoeducation, family-centred interventions, and systemic improvements in mental health care for adolescents and young adults in resource-constrained settings.Expanding access to structured psychological support and enhancing therapeutic environments are critical to fostering sustainable recovery and improving care outcomes.