The Impact of Sexual and Reproductive Health Experiences on Adolecent Mental Health in the Upper East Region of Ghana

Background: Mental health has a directional relationship with the experience of adolescent sexual and reproductive health. Poor mental health may lead to increased risk behaviour (i.e., unprotected sex), which may, in turn, result in adolescent pregnancy and/or postnatal HIV infection. Likewise, adolescent pregnancy and/or living with HIV may contribute to mental health challenges. Despite this significant relationship, less attention has been shown toward adolescents' sexual and reproductive need. Aims and objectives: The main aim of the study was to examine the intersection between adolescent sexual and reproductive health and mental health among adolescents in the Upper East Region of Ghana. Methodology : This study is quantitative cross-sectional survey. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Data entry was done using EpiData Entry Client v4.2.0.49 and exported to STATA v16.1 for analysis. Microsoft Excel was used to generate graphs and tables for clearer explanations of results. Chi square test was performed to find the association between independent and dependent variables. Results: A total of 385 adolescent boys and girls aged 10-19 years were surveyed. Among them, 141 (36.6%) participants reported unwanted pregnancies, and 129(33.5%) had attempted abortions. The prevalence of early marriage among the participants was 16(4.16%) and the reported prevalence of early marriage among participants' colleagues who weren’t part of the study stood at 67 (17.4%). Majority of the respondents (60%) doubt the confidentiality of the health workers which also serves as a barrier and challenge to reproductive health. More than half (64.2%) of the participants stated that they want SRH-related programs to be implemented in their communities. Conclusion and recommendation: Based on the findings of the study, it can be concluded that the prevalence of early marriage among the participants was lower than the reported prevalence of early marriage among participant’s colleagues. The prevalence of unwanted pregnancy and abortion was high in this study. Also, the prevalence of mental depression, irritable and hopelessness among the participants was high as well. Health care providers negative attitude towards adolescents serves as a barrier and challenge to reproductive healthcare among adolescents. Again, lack of trust and confidentiality also serve as a barrier and challenge to reproductive healthcare. Finally, majority of the adolescent want mental health to be integrated into reproductive healthcare. Adolescent reproductive healthcare and mental healthcare facilities should be provided in the various schools and communities to help young adolescents to have access to reproductive and mental healthcare. Adolescent reproductive and mental health education should be incorporated in the syllabus to give young people first-hand information on their mental and reproductive health. Healthcare providers should exhibit good and positive attitude towards adolescents seeking for reproductive and mental healthcare service.