Psychological Factors and Mental Health Status of Academic Staff at The University of Calabar

@article{1708784,
      author = {Akpong Benedict Agianbekong, Dr. Uzoigwe, Michael Chukwudi},
      title = {Psychological Factors and Mental Health Status of Academic Staff at The University of Calabar},
      journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
      year = {2025},
      volume = {8},
      number = {11},
      pages = {1903-1916},
      issn = {2456-8880},
      url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1708784.pdf},
      abstract = {This study examined the relationship between psychological factors and the mental health status of academic staff at the University of Calabar. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, enabling the collection and analysis of data from a representative sample of 400 academic staff, selected through stratified random sampling from a total population of 3,451. Data were collected using two validated instruments: the Psychological Factors Inventory (PFI) and the Mental Health Status Questionnaire (MHSQ), each consisting of 36 structured items. Reliability was established through a pilot study, yielding Cronbach's Alpha coefficients of 0.84 and 0.88 for the PFI and MHSQ, respectively. Findings revealed that high levels of stress and burnout negatively impact the mental health of academic staff, manifesting as anxiety, emotional exhaustion, and reduced psychological resilience. Conversely, job satisfaction was identified as a key factor positively influencing mental health outcomes, fostering emotional well-being and coping mechanisms. The study concludes that psychological factors, particularly stress, burnout, and job satisfaction, significantly affect the mental health status of academic staff at the University of Calabar. The study recommends the implementation of regular mental health awareness programs, counseling services, and institutional reforms to address stress and burnout. Additionally, equitable workload policies, stress management training, and supportive work environments should be prioritized to enhance the well-being and productivity of academic staff. These interventions are essential for fostering a healthier and more effective academic workforce.},
      keywords = {Psychological factors, Mental health, Academic staff, Stress and burnout, Job satisfaction},
      month = {May},
  }