PROMOTING MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS AND COPYING STRATEGIES AMONG STUDENTS OF FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, YOLA.

The mental health of students is a critical factor in their overall well-being and academic success. This study focuses on promoting mental health awareness and coping strategies among students of the Federal College of Education, Yola. The objective is to assess the level of awareness, common mental health challenges, and the coping mechanisms employed by students. The research employs a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather comprehensive data.Findings reveal a significant gap in mental health awareness, with many students lacking basic knowledge of mental health conditions and their symptoms. Common challenges include stress, anxiety, depression, and social pressures, which negatively impact students' academic performance and personal development. Despite these challenges, most students rely on informal coping strategies such as social support from peers and family, while only a few utilize professional counseling services.The study highlights the need for targeted mental health awareness programs within the college, encouraging students to seek professional help when needed and educating them on effective coping mechanisms. It recommends the integration of mental health education into the curriculum and the establishment of easily accessible counseling services. These interventions are expected to foster a healthier academic environment, where students can thrive both mentally and academically.