Predictors of Mental Health Literacy Among Psychiatric Nurses in Urban Mental Health Facilities

African Journal of Nursing and Midwifery | Vol. 14, No. 9, September 2026 | pp. 106–114

DOI: 10.46882/2026/AJNM/000144

Original Research Article

Title: Predictors of Mental Health Literacy Among Psychiatric Nurses in Urban Mental Health Facilities

Names of Authors: Chidi E. Obi¹, Khadija A. Omar²

Authors’ Affiliations:
¹Department of Mental Health Nursing, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
²School of Nursing Science, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Abstract:
Psychiatric nurses play a pivotal role in bridging clinical mental health gaps, yet their level of mental health literacy regarding emerging neuropsychiatric conditions requires constant evaluation. This descriptive cross-sectional study evaluated the predictors of clinical mental health literacy among specialized psychiatric nurses working in urban referral centers. A total of 165 psychiatric nurses completed a pre-validated, online adaptation of the Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS) alongside an institutional resource evaluation index. Multiple linear regression models were executed to isolate significant organizational and demographic predictors. The aggregate mental health literacy score across the cohort stood at 71.4% (SD = ±5.8). Regression metrics demonstrated that continuous access to professional clinical workshops (beta = 0.38, p < 0.001) and personal attainment of a postgraduate specialty degree (beta = 0.29, p = 0.002) were strong standalone predictors of elevated literacy. Conversely, years of general nursing service showed no statistically significant association with MHLS performance. The findings indicate that while baseline literacy is stable, nuanced diagnostic updates are heavily dependent on formal continuing education rather than clinical longevity. Systemic implementation of routine training frameworks is vital to maintain diagnostic and therapeutic accuracy.

Keywords: Mental Health Literacy; Psychiatric Nursing; Continuous Education; Mental Health Services; Clinical Competence; Urban Healthcare.

Manuscript Timeline: Received June 12, 2026; Revised August 04, 2026; Accepted August 22, 2026; Published September 02, 2026.

Citation: Obi, C. E., & Omar, K. A. (2026). Predictors of Mental Health Literacy Among Psychiatric Nurses in Urban Mental Health Facilities. African Journal of Nursing and Midwifery, 14(9), 106–114. DOI: 10.46882/2026/AJNM/000144

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