Occupational mental health in the niger delta: a systematic review of stressors and interventions

Candid U. Uhegbu; Obatavwe Ukoba

doi:10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20251735

Authors

Candid U. Uhegbu Department of Public Health, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Obatavwe Ukoba Department of Public Health, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria; Department of Community Medicine, Delta State Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH), Oghara, Delta State, Nigeria

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20251735

Keywords:

Disconnected capitalism, Environmental degradation, Niger delta, Occupational mental Health, Oil and gas industry

Abstract

Occupational mental health in Nigeria's Niger Delta is profoundly impacted by a confluence of factors, including environmental degradation from oil extraction, pervasive socioeconomic instability, ongoing social unrest and the systemic issue of "disconnected capitalism." These elements collectively create a high-stress environment for workers in the region. This systematic literature review aimed to comprehensively analyze existing research (2000-2025) on occupational mental health in the Niger Delta, identifying key stressors, evaluating mental health service availability and exploring proposed interventions. Utilizing databases such as PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus and Google Scholar, we synthesized findings narratively. The review identified primary stressors as environmental degradation (linked to depression, anxiety, PTSD), socioeconomic factors (contributing to depression, anxiety, frustration), oil and gas industry hazards (causing burnout, anxiety) and "disconnected capitalism" (fostering powerlessness, resentment, chronic stress). A critical finding was the limited availability of mental health services. In conclusion, occupational mental health in the Niger Delta is severely affected by these interconnected environmental, socioeconomic, industrial and systemic stressors. Addressing this crisis necessitates comprehensive, culturally sensitive interventions focused on environmental remediation, socioeconomic development, workplace well-being, equitable resource distribution and significantly improved mental health services.

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