Mental Wellness is dedicated to the rapid dissemination of high-quality Mental health research that can help us meet the challenges of the 21st century and capitalize on the promises ahead. Mental Wellness provides an ideal forum for the exchange of information on mental health, including research from the ‘core’ fields of psychiatry, psychology, neuroscience, and public health, as well as related fields such as nursing, genomics research, pharmacology, education, criminology, medical sociology, and others. It also supports the publication of interdisciplinary research, which cannot be defined by a traditional, more conventional scientific discipline. The journal strives to de-stigmatize, raise public awareness of, and help advance treatment and prevention of mental illness. To ensure rapid dissemination of information, Mental Wellness board aims to complete the review process of each paper within 3 months of its initial submission. We also publish special issues on relevant themes proposed by guest editors. We wish to encourage more contributions from the scientific community to ensure the continued success of the journal. Authors, reviewers, and guest editors are always welcome. We also welcome comments and suggestions that could improve the quality of the journal. Thank you. We hope you will find Mental Wellness informative.
A systematic review of climate change and its health outcomes on populations in Nigeria
Climate change poses increasing threats to population health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries with high environmental and socioeconomic vulnerability. Nigeria experiences diverse climate hazards, including rising temperatures, flooding, drought, and rainfall variability, which may adversely affect multiple health outcomes. This systematic review synthesized available evidence on climate change-related health outcomes among Nigerian populations. A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Five electronic databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, ScienceDirect, and African Journals Online) were searched for eligible studies published between 2012 and 2026. Original quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies examining climate-related exposures and health outcomes in Nigeria were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool 2018, and findings were synthesized narratively. Quality appraisal identified nine high-quality, eighteen moderate-quality, and five low-quality studies. Thirty-two studies were included, comprising predominantly cross-sectional surveys, alongside time-series, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies. Five major climate–health pathways were identified: thermal stress and heat-related morbidity, waterborne and vector-borne infectious diseases, food and nutrition insecurity, mental health and psychosocial distress, and respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. Flooding and temperature-related exposures were the most frequently investigated climate hazards. The evidence base was geographically uneven, with urban settings and the Southwest geopolitical zone most represented. Climate change is already exerting substantial and multifaceted health impacts across Nigeria. However, important geographical and methodological gaps remain. Strengthening climate-sensitive surveillance, climate-resilient health systems, and longitudinal and intervention-based research is essential to support evidence-informed adaptation and public health responses.
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A systematic review of beneficial and adverse mental health outcomes associated with premarital sex among Nigerian adolescents and youths
Premarital sexual activity among Nigerian adolescents and youths is a public health concern with contested mental health implications. Within Nigeria’s highly religious and culturally conservative context, the psychological consequences of premarital sex remain inadequately synthesized. This systematic review aimed to critically appraise and synthesize existing evidence on both the beneficial and adverse mental health outcomes associated with premarital sex among Nigerian adolescents and youths. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, African Journals Online, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar was conducted for peer-reviewed primary studies published between 2013 and 2025. Risk of bias was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Data were synthesized thematically. Fourteen studies met inclusion criteria, comprising cross-sectional surveys, qualitative investigations, and mixed-methods studies across all six Nigerian geopolitical zones. Premarital sex was consistently associated with guilt, shame, depression, anxiety, and diminished self-esteem, particularly among females. However, severe mental health outcomes were predominantly linked to forced sexual initiation, transactional sex, and unintended pregnancy rather than consensual premarital activity. Conversely, some studies identified psychosexual benefits, including enhanced sexual esteem and satisfaction, when sex occurred within supportive relational contexts. Protective factors such as religiosity, parental communication, and comprehensive sexuality education moderated adverse outcomes. Premarital sex exhibits a dual profile of mental health risks and benefits among Nigerian youths, with outcomes heavily mediated by contextual factors. Policy and practice should prioritize contextualized comprehensive sexuality education, mental health integration into youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services, and targeted support for survivors of forced sexual initiation.
A systematic review of knowledge, attitude, perception, burden, and impact of menstrual period on mental health and well-being of women of reproductive age in Nigeria
Menstrual health remains a neglected yet critical determinant of mental and physical well-being among women of reproductive age in resource-limited settings, including Nigeria, where persistent stigma, inadequate knowledge, and material deprivation converge to amplify vulnerability to psychological distress. This systematic review systematically mapped and thematically synthesized peer-reviewed evidence on the knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, burden, and mental health impact of menstruation among Nigerian women of reproductive age (15-49 years), identifying key gaps to inform policy, practice, and future research. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, AJOL, Springer, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar was conducted for primary studies (cross-sectional, qualitative, mixed-methods, and quasi-experimental) published between January 2015 and December 2025. Findings were synthesized thematically. Twenty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria, spanning six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. Five overarching themes were identified: persistent knowledge deficits regarding menstrual physiology, especially in rural areas; prevailing negative attitudes, stigmatization, and cultural restrictions; high prevalence of menstrual disorders, particularly dysmenorrhea and premenstrual syndrome; substantial mental health burden, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and social withdrawal; and marked educational disruption, with reporting school absenteeism during menstruation. The evidence reveals a cyclical relationship wherein inadequate knowledge fuels stigma, which in turn exacerbates psychological distress, educational disruption, and diminished quality of life. Despite growing policy recognition, fragmented data and limited geographical reach constrain generalizability. Rigorous longitudinal and interventional research is urgently needed to inform scalable, evidence-based solutions.
A scoping review of public health challenges and systemic barriers facing unmet health and social care needs of older populations in Nigeria
Nigeria’s aging population is increasing steadily, yet health and social care systems remain in-adequately prepared to address the complex needs of older adults. Unmet health and social care needs contribute to poor health outcomes, functional decline, reduced quality of life, and grow-ing inequities among older populations. This scoping review mapped and synthesized existing evidence on unmet health and social care needs among older adults in Nigeria, with particular attention to public health challenges and systemic barriers affecting access to care. A scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA-ScR framework. Electronic searches were performed across PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Wiley Online Library, Frontiers, and Discovery databases for studies published between 2010 and 2025. Data were extracted and synthesized using thematic analysis. A total of 43 studies met the inclusion criteria. Overall, 4 major themes emerged: demographic and epidemiological transitions, unmet health needs, unmet social care needs, and system-ic/public health barriers. Older adults experienced substantial unmet needs related to chronic disease management, mental health services, oral healthcare, preventive care, and assistance with activities of daily living. Key barriers included poverty, high out-of-pocket healthcare costs, inadequate geriatric services, workforce shortages, weak social protection systems, geo-graphical inequities, and policy gaps. Social isolation, caregiving burdens, and limited commu-nity-based support further compounded vulnerabilities. Older adults in Nigeria face significant unmet health and social care needs driven by intersect-ing socioeconomic, health system, and policy challenges. Strengthening geriatric care, expand-ing social protection, integrating health and social services, and improving evidence-based poli-cy development are essential to promote healthy and dignified aging in Nigeria.
Herbal medicine in Nigeria: a scoping review of the pathway to achieving a holistic healthcare system, health and wellness, and Sustainable Development Goals
Herbal medicine, a cornerstone of traditional medicine (TM) in Nigeria, offers a culturally congruent approach to healthcare that aligns with holistic principles encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. In Nigeria, orthodox healthcare access remains limited, and herbal medicine integration into the national healthcare system faces regulatory, safety, and evidence gaps. This scoping review examined the role of herbal medicine in advancing Nigeria’s holistic healthcare, wellness, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) attainment. Objectives included mapping prevalence, patterns, integration efforts, and policy implications. Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, searches across PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Frontiers, BMC, and African Journals Online (2010-2025) using terms such as “herbal medicine Nigeria”, “traditional medicine integration”, and “herbal medicine SDG” identified 5 primary studies meeting inclusion criteria (English-language, Nigeria-focused empirical research on use, regulation, or integration). Data were narratively synthesized into themes, with risk of bias assessed via Joanna Briggs Institute tools. Results revealed high lifetime prevalence (66.8-85%), driven by perceived effectiveness, affordability, and cultural alignment. Key themes encompassed widespread use patterns, safety and regulatory challenges, partial policy progress (e.g., 2007 National Traditional Medicine Policy), and untapped contributions to UHC and SDG 3 through accessible, community-based care. Included studies consistently highlighted low disclosure to orthodox providers (up to 82%) and incoherent integration. In conclusion, herbal medicine represents a viable pathway to holistic healthcare in Nigeria when standardized and evidence-based. Recommendations include accelerated research into efficacy, strengthened National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control regulation, practitioner training, and digital documentation for integration. Realizing this potential could accelerate SDG progress while preserving indigenous knowledge.
A systematic review of the influence of diabetes in pregnancy on the mental health of expectant mothers in Nigeria
Diabetes in pregnancy is increasingly recognized as an important contributor to adverse maternal mental health outcomes; yet evidence from Nigeria remains fragmented. This systematic review mapped the existing literature on the mental health and well-being of Nigerian women with diabetes in pregnancy and identified the major psychosocial and contextual factors associated with psychological distress. A systematic review methodology guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute framework and PRISMA-SR guidelines was employed. Six electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, African Journals Online (AJOL), ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library) and grey literature sources were searched for studies published between January 2020 and April 2026, and the findings were synthesized thematically. A total of 12 studies met inclusion criteria. The evidence demonstrated consistently elevated levels of depression, anxiety, emotional distress, and impaired psychological well-being among women with diabetes in pregnancy compared with normoglycemic pregnant populations. Poor glycemic control, previous mental health problems, low social support, financial hardship, and poor health literacy emerged as major determinants of psychological distress. Fear of adverse maternal and fetal outcomes, stigma, and inadequate partner support further intensified emotional vulnerability. Health-system limitations, including poor awareness of gestational diabetes, inconsistent screening practices, and the absence of integrated mental health services within antenatal care, contributed substantially to psychological burden. Coping strategies were predominantly informal, with spirituality and family support serving as major protective mechanisms. Diabetes in pregnancy carries a considerable mental health burden among Nigerian women. The review highlights an urgent need for integrated maternal mental health screening, psychosocial support services, and culturally responsive interventions within diabetes-in-pregnancy care pathways in Nigeria.
A systematic review exploring challenges, achievements, and future directions of the impacts of children’s 24-hour movement behaviors and health in Nigeria
The 24-hour movement behavior (24h MB) framework integrates physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior (SB), and sleep as interdependent determinants of child and adolescent health. Evidence from low- and middle-income countries suggests suboptimal adherence to these behaviors, with implications for growth, cognitive development, and cardiometabolic risk. However, synthesized evidence from Nigeria remains limited. This systematic review systematically mapped evidence on prevalence patterns, health outcomes, contextual determinants, and intervention opportunities related to 24h MB among Nigerian children and adolescents. The systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines and included studies retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Frontiers, BMC, and African Journals Online between 2010 and 2025. A total of eight empirical studies met the inclusion criteria. Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools. Findings indicate consistently suboptimal movement behavior patterns. PA adherence ranged from 37% to 87.5%, while sedentary behavior compliance ranged from 87% to 100%, and sleep deficits affected up to one-third of adolescents. Urban children consistently demonstrated lower PA levels and higher sedentary time compared with rural counterparts. Health outcomes included impaired gross motor development, elevated cardiometabolic risk indicators, and reduced sleep quality among adolescents. Key determinants included inadequate PA infrastructure, increasing screen-based entertainment, academic pressures, gender norms, insecurity, and socioeconomic disparities. Facilitators included rural active-play environments, school-based physical education initiatives, and emerging policy engagement through national surveillance frameworks. Despite these insights, the evidence base is limited by small sample size, cross-sectional design, and geographic clustering in south-western Nigeria. The review concludes that Nigerian children’s 24h MB patterns are socially patterned and suboptimal, requiring integrated, equity-focused interventions across education, health, and urban systems to support Sustainable Development Goal 3 and broader child well-being targets.
Associations between sedentary behavior, mental well-being, and sleep dysregulation: cross-sectional evidence from student populations
This study investigates the prevalence of sedentary behavior and examines its association with mental well-being and sleep patterns. This cross-sectional study included 649 medical students. Participants completed a structured, closed-ended survey assessing demographic characteristics, mental well-being, and sleep-related variables. A high prevalence of sedentary behavior was identified among students (60.1%). Sedentary behavior was significantly associated with mental well-being (p=0.04), sleep patterns (p=0.01), and screen time (p<0.001). Multinomial regression analyses demonstrated that sedentary behavior significantly predicted poor mental health [odds ratio (OR)=1.66; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.11-2.48; p=0.01] and screen time of 4 to 6 hours per day (OR=2.24; 95% CI: 1.19-4.21; p=0.01). The likelihood of exceeding 6 hours of screen time was even higher (OR=6.0; 95% CI: 3.23-11.12; p<0.001). Additionally, sedentary behavior was associated with a significantly increased odds of irregular sleep (OR=1.63; 95% CI: 1.16-2.29; p=0.005). The high prevalence of sedentary behavior and its strong association with sleep dysregulation highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions. Implementing strategies to reduce prolonged sitting and promote healthier sleep and mental health practices may provide significant benefits. Additional research utilizing longitudinal or experimental designs across diverse institutions is necessary to clarify causal mechanisms and inform the development of effective prevention strategies.
A systematic review of the consequences of academic performance on mental health and well-being among students in Nigeria
Academic performance is increasingly recognized as an important determinant of students’ mental health and well-being, yet evidence from Nigeria remains fragmented and insufficiently synthesized. This scoping review examined the consequences of academic performance on mental health and well-being among students in Nigeria. A systematic review was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodological framework and reported in line with PRISMA-SR guidelines. Six electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, African Journals Online, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, and Semantic Scholar were searched for peer-reviewed studies published between January 2021 and April 2026. Eligible studies investigated academic performance as an exposure, correlate, or predictor of mental health outcomes among Nigerian students. Data were extracted using a standardized form and synthesized narratively and thematically. A total of 28 studies met the inclusion criteria. Poor academic performance was consistently associated with elevated levels of depression, anxiety, stress, psychological distress, burnout, low self-esteem, and suicidal ideation. Examination pressure, fear of failure, excessive workload, financial hardship, institutional instability, and poor sleep quality emerged as recurrent contributors to adverse mental health outcomes. Several studies demonstrated significant negative correlations between psychological distress and academic performance, while resilience, emotional support, and adaptive coping strategies moderated these relationships. Religious coping and family support were commonly utilized protective mechanisms, although awareness and utilization of formal mental health services remained low. Academic performance substantially influences students’ mental health and well-being in Nigeria through interconnected psychosocial and structural pathways. Longitudinal and intervention-based studies are needed to strengthen causal understanding and inform contextually appropriate mental health policies and educational support strategies.
A systematic review of the impact of economic and security conditions on mental health and well-being in Nigeria
Nigeria faces the dual burden of escalating economic instability and pervasive insecurity. However, a comprehensive synthesis of evidence examining how these macro-level stressors are associated with mental health and well-being in the Nigerian population remains limited. This systematic review synthesized empirical evidence linking economic hardship and security challenges to mental health outcomes in Nigeria. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, AJOL, BMC, SpringerLink, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar was conducted for peer-reviewed original studies published between 2020 and 2025. Studies were included if they examined associations between economic conditions (including unemployment, poverty, inflation, and food insecurity) or security-related conditions (including conflict, displacement, and violence) and mental health outcomes among Nigerian populations. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist, and findings were synthesized narratively because of substantial methodological and clinical heterogeneity across included studies. A total of 26 studies met the inclusion criteria. Financial strain, unemployment, and food insecurity were consistently associated with elevated depression, anxiety, and psychological distress. Security-related exposures, particularly the Boko Haram insurgency, communal violence, and displacement, were linked to increased post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and psychological distress among internally displaced persons and frontline populations. Women, youth, informal workers, and conflict-affected populations experienced disproportionately elevated mental health burdens. Social support, religious involvement, physical activity, and stable income emerged as important protective factors. The findings suggest that economic deprivation and insecurity are important and interrelated determinants of mental health challenges in Nigeria. Addressing these burdens requires integrated and multi-sectoral strategies combining mental health services with poverty alleviation, social protection, humanitarian response, and peacebuilding initiatives. Strengthening community-based psychosocial support systems and integrating mental health into humanitarian and economic recovery programs should be prioritized.
Perfectionism, performance pressure, and self-esteem among software professionals: a cross-sectional study
Perfectionism and performance pressure are important determinants of psychological well-being among software professionals. This study examined the relationship between perfectionism (adaptive and maladaptive), performance pressure, anxiety, and self-esteem and identified factors independently associated with self-esteem. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 215 software professionals using convenience sampling. Data were collected using standardized instruments, including the Almost Perfect Scale-Revised, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Job-Related Tension Index, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7. Self-esteem was positively associated with adaptive perfectionism (r=0.555, p<0.001) and negatively associated with maladaptive perfectionism (r=-0.307, p<0.001) and anxiety (r=-0.431, p<0.001). Performance pressure was strongly associated with anxiety (r=0.660, p<0.001) but not with self-esteem (r=0.049, p>0.05). Regression analysis showed that adaptive perfectionism and performance pressure were positively associated with self-esteem, while anxiety and maladaptive perfectionism were negatively associated with self-esteem (p<0.001). In conclusion, adaptive perfectionism is associated with higher self-esteem, whereas maladaptive perfectionism and anxiety negatively impact self-esteem.
A systematic review of community-based counseling interventions for improving mental health and social well-being among vulnerable populations in Nigeria
Nigeria faces a substantial mental health burden, with an estimated 40-50 million individuals affected and a treatment gap exceeding 85%. Vulnerable populations, including internally displaced persons (IDPs) and conflict-affected women, children, and adolescents, experience compounded risks and severely limited access to care. Community-based counseling interventions delivered through task shifting have emerged as a promising strategy to bridge this gap. This systematic review aimed to systematically map the existing evidence on community-based counseling interventions designed to improve mental health and social well-being among vulnerable populations in Nigeria. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, Springer, Frontiers, ScienceDirect, AJOL, Springer, Cambridge Core, BMC, and grey literature sources was conducted for studies published between 2014 and 2026. Eligible studies included peer-reviewed articles and program evaluations of community-based counseling interventions targeting vulnerable Nigerian populations. A narrative synthesis was employed to map intervention types, delivery modalities, and outcomes. A total of 12 studies met the inclusion criteria. Vulnerable populations included IDPs, conflict-affected adolescents, women, and primary care patients. Interventions included group cognitive-behavioral therapy, didactic counseling, and integrated mental health and peacebuilding programs delivered by lay counselors and non-specialist health workers. Key findings demonstrated significant reductions in depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and aggression. Community-based counseling interventions delivered through task shifting demonstrate considerable promise for improving mental health outcomes among Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations. However, the evidence base remains limited in geographic scope and methodological rigor. Future research should prioritize longitudinal, controlled studies across Nigeria’s diverse socio-cultural contexts to strengthen causal inference and inform sustainable scale-up.
Evaluation of the school feeding scheme in Nigeria: a scoping review of its impacts, challenges, successes, implications, and solutions to achieving Sustainable Development Goals
The National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme (NHGSFP) is Nigeria’s flagship school feeding intervention designed to reduce child hunger, improve school participation, and stimulate local agricultural production. This systematic review synthesizes evidence on its impacts, implementation challenges, successes, and contributions to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 4 (Quality Education). A systematic search of PubMed, AJOL, Scopus, ScienceDirect, BMC, Frontiers, and grey literature was conducted for studies published between January 2010 and March 2026, following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Eligible studies included quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research reporting primary data on NHGSFP outcomes in Nigeria. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute tools. Out of 312 records, 8 studies met the inclusion criteria. Evidence from the included studies indicates that NHGSFP is associated with improved school enrollment (11-42% relative gains), increased attendance, and enhanced household food security among participating smallholder farmers (40% food security among beneficiary farmers; 20% non-beneficiaries). Successes included local economic multipliers via smallholder procurement. However, nutritional outcomes remain inconsistent due to variability in meal quality, funding constraints, and limited integration of complementary health services such as deworming and water, sanitation, and hygiene. Implementation challenges include inadequate financing, weak monitoring systems, regional disparities, and governance inefficiencies. Despite these constraints, the program demonstrates economic benefits through local procurement and employment generation, particularly for smallholder farmers and women. Overall, NHGSFP contributes to multiple SDGs, but its impact is constrained by systemic and contextual challenges. Strengthening financing, governance, and integrated service delivery is essential to improve effectiveness. Further longitudinal and experimental studies are needed to establish causal impacts on health and education outcomes.
National home-grown school feeding programme
A systematic review of challenges facing climate change education in Nigeria and its public health consequences
Climate change poses escalating threats to public health worldwide, with low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria experiencing disproportionate risks from rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, flooding, droughts, and associated vector-borne diseases, malnutrition, respiratory illnesses, and heat stress. Education is widely recognized as a vital tool for building climate resilience, yet climate change education (CCE) in Nigeria faces persistent barriers, including fragmented curricula, inadequate teacher training, resource shortages, and low public awareness. This systematic review maps the challenges facing CCE in Nigeria and examines their linkages to public health consequences. The objectives were to identify barriers to CCE implementation, describe associated public health impacts in the Nigerian context, and explore interconnections between educational gaps and health outcomes. Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched PubMed, ScienceDirect, BMC, Frontiers, Scopus, African Journals Online, and grey literature sources from January 2010 to March 2026 using terms combining climate change indicators with education concepts restricted to Nigeria. Results highlight three dominant themes: curriculum and policy deficits, awareness and capacity gaps, and resource and infrastructural constraints. These barriers collectively limit adaptive behaviors and amplify disease burdens, particularly in rural and northern regions. Deficient CCE correlates with poor hygiene practices during floods and low uptake of heat-mitigation strategies, exacerbating malaria, cholera, and respiratory conditions. In conclusion, strengthening CCE through curriculum reform, teacher training, and multisectoral collaboration is essential to mitigate public health risks. Recommendations include integrating climate-health modules across all educational levels, scaling community awareness programs, and prioritizing rural infrastructure investment. Future research should evaluate intervention effectiveness using longitudinal and mixed-methods designs.
Integrating molecular docking and biological evaluation of metal-phytochemical complexes in Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline, memory impairment, and neuronal loss. Its pathogenesis involves multiple interconnected mechanisms, including amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregation, τ hyperphosphorylation, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and metal ion dyshomeostasis. Current therapeutic strategies primarily provide symptomatic relief, underscoring the urgent need for multitargeted approaches. Natural products have emerged as promising candidates due to their structural diversity and ability to modulate several pathological pathways simultaneously. Among these, triterpenoid glycosides such as momordicoside L exhibit notable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Recent advances highlight the potential of metal-phytochemical complexes in enhancing pharmacological efficacy. Complexation with metals such as copper may improve the stability, bioavailability, and biological activity of phytochemicals while modulating metal-induced toxicity associated with AD. Molecular docking studies provide insights into interactions with key targets, while in vitro and in vivo investigations demonstrate improved neuroprotective effects, including enhanced cell viability, reduced inflammatory responses, and cognitive improvement. This review emphasizes the integration of analytical characterization, computational modeling, and biological validation, supporting the development of metal-natural product complexes as innovative multitarget therapeutic agents for AD.
Factors contributing to mental health issues in Nigeria: a scoping review of their prevalence, associated factors, and patterns
Mental health disorders constitute a major but insufficiently addressed public health concern in Nigeria, shaped by intersecting socioeconomic, cultural, and systemic factors. This scoping review systematically mapped the prevalence, determinants, and patterns of mental health issues among diverse Nigerian populations. Following the Arksey and O’Malley framework and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews guidelines, comprehensive searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Frontiers, BMC, and African Journals Online for English-language empirical studies published from January 2005 to December 2025. Studies included reported prevalence rates or associated factors for mental health outcomes within Nigerian contexts. Data extraction and narrative synthesis were performed, and methodological quality was appraised using an adapted Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. A total of 12 studies encompassing more than 40,000 participants from community, student, clinical, elderly, internally displaced, and key populations were included. Prevalence of depression, anxiety, or psychological distress ranged from 5.5% to 53.5%, reflecting substantial heterogeneity across populations and study designs. Key contributing factors identified were socioeconomic disadvantage, cultural and religious stigma, trauma and conflict exposure, limited healthcare access, substance use, and demographic vulnerabilities. Large treatment gaps persist, with evidence that only a minority of affected individuals access formal care. Findings highlight that mental health challenges in Nigeria are driven by modifiable structural, societal, and healthcare barriers, underscoring the need for integrated primary care, anti-stigma initiatives, trauma-informed services, and targeted interventions for high-risk groups. Future research should emphasize longitudinal and intervention studies to inform effective policy and service delivery.
The efficacy and safety of psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depressive disorder: a meta-analytic review of clinical outcomes
This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized data from 13 clinical trials (n=606) evaluating psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for major depressive disorder and treatment-resistant depression. Despite early enthusiasm, the pooled standardized mean difference (-0.79, 95% confidence interval: -3.98 to 2.40, p=0.63) revealed no statistically significant overall antidepressant effect, with extreme heterogeneity (I2=96.9%) across studies. Notably, the type of control group (active comparator vs. placebo/waitlist) accounted for 98.7% of between-study variance, with waitlist and low-dose comparators producing exaggerated effect sizes. Session frequency was a significant moderator: 2 to 5 psilocybin sessions yielded larger effects, while more intensive protocols attenuated benefit. Neither participant age nor follow-up duration significantly influenced outcomes. Evidence of reporting bias and small-study effects was detected (Egger’s test p=0.012). Sensitivity analyses demonstrated that no single study accounted for the non-significant pooled result. Overall, psilocybin’s antidepressant efficacy appears highly context-dependent—shaped by trial design, comparator, and session structure—rather than universally robust. These findings underscore the need for larger, rigorously controlled trials to clarify psilocybin’s therapeutic role in depression.
Gender-affirming hormone therapy and suicide-related outcomes in transgender and gender-diverse populations: a systematic review and meta-analysis
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the association between gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) and suicide-related outcomes (including suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and suicide death) among transgender and gender-diverse individuals. It included 8 independent studies with 11 effect sizes. The pooled multilevel estimate was not statistically significant but pointed in a negative direction (log odds ratio = -0.3576; 95% confidence interval: -1.2768 to 0.5617; p=0.4458), suggesting a possible but not definitive protective effect of GAHT against suicidality. There was substantial heterogeneity among studies [Q (10)=170.5309, p<0.0001; σ2=1.7820; I2≈94.1%]. Moderator analyses showed that age group was significant [QM (2)=6.9350, p=0.0312], with mixed-age samples differing from adolescent samples, but adult samples did not significantly differ from adolescent samples. Comparator type, study design, and outcome domain were not significant moderators. Sensitivity analyses pointed to influential studies and evidence of funnel asymmetry and small-study effects. The conclusions highlight that while there is a non-significant trend toward a protective effect of GAHT, the evidence is limited by high heterogeneity, influential studies, small-study effects, and the predominantly observational nature of the data. Larger and better-characterized longitudinal studies are needed for clearer causal inference.
Culturally informed pharmacogenomics in opioid prescribing
This minireview examines how integrating cultural factors with pharmacogenomics can enhance opioid prescribing practices. Cultural context, including traditional beliefs, family dynamics, and collective identity, significantly impacts patient engagement and treatment outcomes, particularly among minoritized populations. Concurrently, genetic differences in opioid metabolism and response, notably involving genes such as CYP2D6, CYP2B6, OPRM1, COMT, and ABCB1, underscore the need for personalized pharmacogenomic approaches. Actionable genetic variants are not evenly distributed across populations, further highlighting the importance of culturally informed care. Combining culturally sensitive frameworks with pharmacogenomic testing can improve equity and effectiveness in pain management and opioid use disorder treatment. Key recommendations include integrating cultural competence into clinical pathways, expanding access to pharmacogenomic screening, improving provider education, and promoting inclusive research. Ongoing challenges include limited representation in genomic studies and practical barriers to implementation. Future efforts should prioritize developing scalable, inclusive models and evaluating long-term outcomes to optimize culturally informed pharmacogenomics in opioid prescribing.
Perceived stress and eating behavior among pharmacy students at a public university in Mozambique: a cross-sectional study
Academic stress is associated with eating behavior changes, but evidence from sub-Saharan Africa is still limited. This study examined the relationship between perceived stress and eating behavior among pharmacy students in Mozambique. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 40 second- and third-year pharmacy students at Lúrio University between June and July 2025. Perceived stress was assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale and eating behavior under stress was measured using the Salzburg Stress Eating Scale. Spearman’s rank correlation was performed to analyze the relationship between variables. Moderate stress levels predominated (97.5%, n=39). Academic pressure was the most frequently reported stressor. Regarding eating behavior under stress, 42.5% maintained habitual intake, 40.0% reported reduced consumption, and 17.5% reported increased intake. A weak negative correlation was found between perceived stress and eating behavior (95% confidence interval: -0.530 to 0.065; p=0.110), which was not statistically significant. Perceived stress alone may not be a strong predictor of eating behavior changes in this population. Cultural factors and individual coping styles may play important mediating roles among African university students.
Personality pathology and structure among prisoners based on Kernberg’s model
This study examined the prevalence of personality styles and disorders (PSDs) and their association with dimensions of personality organization, based on Kernberg’s model, among 97 male prisoners in Zahedan, Iran. The most prevalent PSD was antisocial personality disorder (25.8%), followed by schizoid, narcissistic, schizotypal, and negativistic (passive-aggressive) types, while depressive personality disorder was the least common (10.3%). Pearson correlation and regression analyses revealed that certain PSDs, specifically passive-aggressive, dependent, borderline, and depressive types, were significantly correlated with the subdomains of personality organization, including reality testing, primitive defenses, and identity diffusion. Notably, depressive personality disorder was a significant predictor for disturbances in reality testing and primitive defenses, while dependent and depressive types predicted greater identity diffusion. Antisocial, paranoid, schizoid, avoidant, obsessive-compulsive, schizotypal, rhapsodic, narcissistic, histrionic, and altruistic PSDs showed no significant associations with personality organization dimensions. These findings highlight both the high prevalence and the heterogeneity of PSDs among inmates and demonstrate that specific PSDs are related to structural aspects of personality organization, underscoring the importance of dimensional assessment for clinical intervention and rehabilitation planning in correctional settings.
Childhood emotional trauma and emotional breakdown: the mediating roles of attachment styles and child schema modes
This study examined the mediating roles of attachment styles and child schema modes in the association between childhood emotional trauma and emotional breakdown following romantic relationship dissolution among 120 medical students. Participants completed validated measures assessing childhood emotional trauma, attachment styles, child schema modes, and post-breakup emotional distress. Results revealed that childhood emotional trauma significantly predicted emotional breakdown, both directly and indirectly via attachment styles and maladaptive child schema modes. Insecure attachment styles (anxious and avoidant) and maladaptive schema modes (vulnerable, angry, enraged, and impulsive child) were positively associated with increased emotional breakdown, while secure attachment and the happy child mode were protective. Mediation analyses confirmed that both attachment styles and child schema modes partially accounted for the relationship between childhood trauma and emotional breakdown. These findings underscore the importance of cognitive-emotional mechanisms, particularly schema modes, in the psychological response to romantic loss. Clinical interventions targeting maladaptive schema modes may enhance resilience and mitigate distress among young adults experiencing relational loss. Limitations and future research directions are discussed.
Rosemary extract improves neuropsychiatric symptoms in methadone-maintained patients
Recent studies have demonstrated the neuropharmacological effects of Rosmarinus officinalis L. (rosemary) on cognitive and psychiatric functioning. Given the high prevalence of psychiatric disorders—including anxiety and depression—as well as cognitive deficits among patients maintained on methadone, this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy of rosemary extract in alleviating neuropsychological symptoms in this population. A total of 47 patients aged 18-60 years attending an addiction treatment clinic were randomly assigned to receive either 500 mg rosemary extract capsules or a placebo daily for 8 weeks. Standardized questionnaires were used to assess outcomes, including anxiety, depression, sexual dysfunction, sleep quality, and cognitive performance. Data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism version 10.3.1. Results indicated that rosemary extract administration led to significant improvements in anxiety symptoms, and favorable effects were observed in depression scores, cognitive functioning, and sleep quality compared to placebo. These findings suggest that rosemary extract may be a beneficial adjunctive therapy for neuropsychiatric symptoms in methadone-maintained patients, warranting further investigation in larger samples and longer-term studies.
Emotional balance and stress of students who take private tutoring for entrance selection to state universities in Indonesia
The objective of this study is to identify emotional balance and stress in students who take private tutoring for state university tryouts. The convenience sample consisted of 384 students (mean age=16.78, standard deviation=0.42) from whom student data were taken from the emotional balance instrument (positive and negative dimensions) and stress instrument (pressure from study, workload, worry about grades, self-expectation, and despondency dimensions). These results explain that emotional balance is negatively correlated with each dimension of stress, the majority of which is in the moderate category, and negative emotions are positively correlated with each dimension of stress, the majority of which is in the moderate category. In general, the null hypothesis is rejected, but there will be differences in the average emotional balance and stress scores among students based on gender. Recommendations and limitations of the study are explained at the end.
Mindfulness as a buffer against job burnout and teaching motivation decline in academia
Faculty members are central to higher education quality, yet increasing job demands have heightened stress and burnout, particularly in resource-limited settings. Mindfulness has emerged as a promising strategy to enhance well-being and teaching motivation while reducing burnout. This cross-sectional, descriptive-correlational study investigated the level of mindfulness and its association with teaching motivation and job burnout among 156 faculty members at Zahedan University of Medical Sciences in 2025. Participants (51.9% female, mean age 48.85) completed validated self-report questionnaires assessing mindfulness, teaching motivation, and job burnout. Results indicated moderate to low levels of mindfulness and average scores for both teaching motivation and job burnout. “Acting with awareness” was the strongest mindfulness facet, while “non-reactivity to internal experience” was the weakest. Emotional exhaustion was the most prominent burnout dimension. Statistical analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between mindfulness and teaching motivation and a negative correlation between mindfulness and burnout. These findings underscore the potential benefits of mindfulness in fostering motivation and mitigating job burnout among medical faculty, highlighting the need for targeted interventions in similar institutional contexts.
Enhancing the mental well-being of postmenopausal women using ExoTMS®
Mental well-being may be adversely affected during menopause. This study examines the effects of a novel ExoTMS® technology on its improvement. Postmenopausal female participants (n=14; 61.8±7.8 years; body mass index: 22.5±2.5 kg/m2) were retrospectively selected from a multi-center study. Participants underwent four transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) sessions. Evaluation was performed using the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale (WEMWBS), Subject Satisfaction and Mental Wellness Questionnaire, and Therapy Comfort Questionnaire. WEMWBS significantly increased (p=0.001) from a baseline of 54.4±9.4 (moderate well-being) to 62.8±8.8 (high well-being) at 3 months post-treatment. 92.9% of participants reported feeling happier and experiencing greater mental energy. All participants reported feeling less stressed and found the treatment comfortable. These findings suggest that ExoTMS may serve as an effective intervention for enhancing mental well-being in postmenopausal women.
Bridging global challenges and local innovations: multidimensional approaches to addiction prevention and treatment
Dear Editor, Addiction stands as one of the defining global health challenges of our era, marked by its multifaceted impact across diverse societies and the intricate interplay of individual, social, and structural determinants...
Copyright (c) 2025 the Author(s) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Enhancing quality of life in Iranian women with breast cancer: the efficacy of psychological interventions. A meta-analysis
This meta-analysis assessed the impact of psychological interventions on the quality of life of breast cancer patients in Iran, reviewing sources from 2006 to 2021, including theses, journals, and international research by Iranian authors. The study analyzed 40 clinical trials with effect sizes, sourced from databases like Magiran, Civilica, Normgs, Scientific-Research Journals, Irandoc, PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO, involving 1946 participants. The overall effect size was 0.45, with a significant level of p<0.001, indicating a considerable impact on patients’ quality of life. The highest effect sizes were d=1.91 and Fisher’s z (Zr)=0.84, while the lowest were d=0.28 and Zr=0.14. According to Cohen’s interpretation, these interventions have a moderate effect size, suggesting they can effectively improve the quality of life for breast cancer patients. The study highlights the potential of psychological interventions as a non-pharmacological strategy for enhancing patient well-being, emphasizing their importance in breast cancer care in Iran. This research supports the adoption of psychological interventions to improve the quality of life among individuals diagnosed with breast cancer.
Family size and children’s emotional adjustment: a comparative study of anxiety and aggression using the Family Drawing Test
This study aimed to investigate differences in anxiety and aggression among children from one-child, two-child, and multiple-child families using the Family Drawing Test. The research employed a causal-comparative design. Participants included 90 children aged 7 to 12 years (30 from each family type), who were purposefully selected from elementary schools in western Mazandaran and eastern Gilan provinces during the 2023-2024 academic year. The Family Drawing Test was administered, and data were analyzed using chi-square tests in SPSS-24. Findings revealed significant differences in anxiety and aggression levels across family types (p≤0.01). Children from one-child families displayed lower levels of anxiety and aggression compared to those from two-child and multiple-child families. However, no significant difference was observed between children from two-child and multiple-child families. The results suggest that family size and birth order can influence children’s emotional and behavioral development. The Family Drawing Test proved to be an effective tool for assessing inner emotional states such as anxiety and aggression in a non-threatening manner.
Maladaptive emotional schemas as mediators in the link between childhood emotional neglect and affective symptoms in medical students
This study explores the link between childhood emotional neglect and the development of depression and anxiety, focusing on the mediating role of maladaptive emotional schemas. Conducted at the Zahedan Faculty of Medical Sciences, the research involved 273 students who completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale, and the Leahy Emotional Schemas Questionnaire. Analysis using SPSS v22 and Hayes’ PROCESS Macro revealed that both childhood emotional neglect and maladaptive emotional schemas significantly predict symptoms of depression (adjusted R2=0.32) and anxiety (adjusted R2=0.34). The study confirms that maladaptive emotional schemas mediate the relationship between childhood emotional neglect and mental health issues. This implies that individuals with histories of childhood emotional neglect are more prone to developing maladaptive emotional schemas, which may lead to depression and anxiety. The findings underscore the importance of addressing childhood emotional neglect and maladaptive emotional schemas in therapeutic settings when treating depression and anxiety. The research highlights the need for targeted interventions that consider these factors to mitigate the risk of depression and anxiety in individuals with such backgrounds.