Relationship Between Mental Health and Risky Sexual Behaviour of Young People in Ibadan, Nigeria

This study investigates the complex relationship between mental health factors, specifically depression, anxiety and stress in engagement of risky sexual behaviours among young population in Ibadan, Nigeria. The research aimed to determine whether these mental health issues significantly influence the propensity to engage in risky sexual activities. A total of 276 young individuals participated in the study. Mean scores were recorded as follows: depression (M = 3.01, SD = 1.27), anxiety (M = 2.75, SD = 1.49), stress (M = 2.74, SD = 1.62), and risky sexual behaviour (M = 2.16, SD = 0.95). A multiple regression analysis indicated a significant collective influence of depression, anxiety, and stress on risky sexual behaviour (R = 0.450, R² = 0.202, F (3, 272) = 23.00, p < 0.000). Notably, depression (β = 0.176, p = 0.005) and stress (β = 0.960, p < 0.001) emerged as significant positive predictors, suggesting that elevated levels of these conditions are associated with increased sexual risk-taking. Contrary to expectations, anxiety (β = -0.825, p < 0.001) had a significant negative association when considered alongside depression and stress, indicating a complex interplay between these factors. The findings underscore the necessity for integrated mental health and sexual health interventions that address multiple psychological dimensions simultaneously. By focusing on mental well-being, particularly through stress and depression reduction strategies, these interventions can potentially reduce risky sexual behaviours among young individuals. This study contributes to the global understanding of the mental health-risky sexual behaviour link and highlights the importance of culturally tailored approaches in mental health and sexual health programmes.