INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA, KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE OF STUDENTS TOWARDS MENTAL HEALTH DISORDER CAMPAIGNS IN KWARA STATE POLYTECHNIC, ILORIN

Abstract Mental well‑being is a fundamental facet of overall health; nevertheless, available evidence indicates that it is often overlooked in many regions, especially within the context of this study’s locale. Building on this observation, the present research investigates the impact of social‑media campaigns on students’ perceptions of mental‑health disorders at Kwara State Polytechnic. A cross‑sectional survey design was adopted, drawing on a sample of 382 Higher National Diploma (HND) students in Ilorin. Data were gathered using a rigorously validated questionnaire. Findings reveal that a considerable proportion of respondents regularly encounter mental‑health messages on social media. Statistical analysis demonstrates that these campaigns exert a significant influence on students’ knowledge and attitudes, generally in a positive direction. Accordingly, the study recommends the integration of mental‑health resources across all spheres of daily life through digital platforms and underscores the urgent necessity for targeted educational initiatives at both institutional and community levels to raise public awareness and improve attitudes toward mental‑health issues. Keywords: Attitude, Campaign, Social Media, Mental Health, Influence, Knowledge, Students.