Participants in this study openly discussed their experiences with social support and how it influenced their medication adherence. Their narratives highlighted the critical role of family members, significant others, and healthcare professionals in encouraging adherence to treatment regimens. It was observed that 74% of participants lived with supportive family members who actively reminded them to take their medication, while 52% acknowledged the role of peer support in motivating them to stay committed to their treatment.

However, the findings also revealed challenges related to adherence. Some participants faced stigma within their families and communities, which discouraged them from consistently taking their medication. Others expressed concerns about misinformation from family members, especially when mental illness was attributed to supernatural causes rather than medical conditions. Despite these challenges, healthcare providers played a significant role in reinforcing adherence through psychoeducation, follow-ups, and emotional support. The key themes that emerged from the interviews are explored in the subsequent sections.

Living with Supportive Family and Significant Others
Participants highlighted the importance of social support in maintaining medication adherence. Those who lived with supportive family members and significant others expressed feeling reassured and encouraged to stay consistent with their treatment. They described how loved ones played an active role in reminding them to take their medication, accompanying them to hospital visits, and offering financial assistance when needed.

P16 shared: “My elder brother always makes sure I take my medication. Even when I forget, he reminds me. He also helps me buy my drugs when I don’t have money.” Similarly, P3 recounted: “If not for my mother, I would have stopped my medication. She sits with me every night and ensures I take them before I sleep.” These narratives illustrate how family members act as a safety net, ensuring that individuals remain committed to their treatment regimen.

For some participants, the presence of a caring partner significantly influenced their adherence. P10 stated: “My husband is my biggest support. He keeps track of my medications and even goes with me to my hospital appointments.” This suggests that spousal support fosters accountability and strengthens adherence.

However, not all participants experienced such positive reinforcement. A few narrated feelings isolated or unsupported, which made adherence more challenging. P7 recounted: “My family doesn’t really understand what I’m going through. They believe that if I pray more, I won’t need medication. Sometimes, I feel like I’m on my own.” These experiences highlight how misconceptions and stigma within families can negatively impact medication adherence.

Despite these challenges, many participants who received strong social support acknowledged its crucial role in keeping them on track. Their accounts reinforce the idea that a supportive social network serves as a protective factor against non-adherence. By ensuring constant reminders, emotional reassurance, and financial aid, family members and significant others help emerging adults with mental illness maintain treatment consistency.

The findings from this study align with a substantial body of empirical research emphasizing the critical role of social support in medication adherence among individuals with mental illness. Studies have shown that family involvement, emotional encouragement, and practical assistance such as reminders or accompaniment to medical appointments significantly improve adherence to psychiatric treatment regimens [35,42]. For instance, [42] found that schizophrenia patients with higher family support demonstrated greater consistency in taking prescribed medications. Similarly, [35] reported that patients with strong social support networks were up to three times more likely to adhere to treatment across various chronic conditions, including mental health disorders. Conversely, some studies indicate that the absence of supportive networks, or the presence of stigma and misconceptions within families, can impede adherence, leading to higher rates of missed doses and treatment discontinuation [36,37]. These findings corroborate the present study, illustrating that supportive family members and partners act as protective factors, facilitating medication adherence, whereas lack of understanding or negative attitudes may present barriers.

Getting Knowledge and Understanding Medication
Knowledge and understanding of medication play a critical role in treatment adherence and health outcomes. Studies suggest that when individuals possess adequate information about their medication, including its benefits, side effects, and proper usage, they are more likely to adhere to prescribed treatment plans [36]. Conversely, misinformation or a lack of understanding can lead to non-adherence, worsening health conditions [37].

Participants in this study expressed varied levels of knowledge about their medication. While some had a clear understanding of their prescriptions, others struggled with confusion and doubts. P8 stated: “At first, I was afraid of the side effects, but after asking my doctor questions and doing some research, I understood that it was necessary for my condition.” This aligns with existing research that emphasizes the importance of patient education in improving medication adherence [45].

For some, lack of information created anxiety and reluctance. P5 recounted: “Nobody really explained the medications to me. I just knew I had to take them. But when I started feeling dizzy, I thought something was wrong and wanted to stop.” Similarly, a study by [46] found that inadequate knowledge about side effects often leads to medication discontinuation.

Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in bridging this knowledge gap. Participants who received detailed explanations from their doctors or pharmacists reported feeling more confident in their treatment plans. P13 shared: “My doctor told me exactly why I needed the medication and what to expect. That made me trust the process.” This reflects findings from research indicating that effective communication between healthcare providers and patients enhances treatment outcomes (Tucker, Lewis, & Hardy, 2019).

However, some participants lacked access to professional guidance, leading them to rely on peers or online sources. P19 explained: “I didn’t get much explanation from the hospital, so I started reading online. Some things scared me, but others helped me understand.” While online resources can be informative, studies caution that misinformation from non-credible sources may contribute to medication hesitancy [47].

This finding aligns with a robust body of empirical evidence emphasizing that patient education is critical for medication adherence and optimal health outcomes. Research has consistently shown that individuals who understand the purpose, benefits, and potential side effects of their medications are more likely to adhere to prescribed treatment regimens [36,37]. Conversely, a lack of information or misinformation can lead to non-adherence, increasing the risk of adverse health outcomes. For instance, [45] demonstrated that structured patient education significantly improved adherence among psychiatric patients, while the [46] highlighted that inadequate communication about side effects contributes to treatment discontinuation. Effective communication from healthcare professionals, such as detailed explanations provided by doctors or pharmacists, fosters trust and confidence in treatment, which has been linked to better adherence [48]. However, reliance on informal sources such as peers or unverified online materials can sometimes exacerbate anxiety and confusion, potentially reducing adherence [47]. Overall, these findings underscore that structured, clear, and accessible health education is a pivotal factor in enhancing adherence among emerging adults with mental illness, supporting the results observed in this study.

Confiding in Doctors and Healthcare Providers
Confiding in doctors and healthcare providers is a crucial step in receiving appropriate medical care, emotional support, and guidance for managing health conditions. However, research indicates that many individuals struggle with fully disclosing their health concerns due to fear, distrust, or previous negative experiences with healthcare professionals [49]. Effective communication between patients and providers is essential for accurate diagnosis, treatment adherence, and overall well-being [50].

Participants in this study expressed varying experiences with confiding in their healthcare providers. While some felt supported and understood, others faced skepticism or dismissive attitudes. P4 shared: “At first, I hesitated to tell my doctor everything. I wasn’t sure how they would react, but when I finally opened up, they reassured me and made me feel safe.” This indicate that a non-judgmental and empathetic approach from healthcare providers fosters trust and encourages disclosure.

However, not all participants had positive experiences. P7 recounted: “I tried explaining my symptoms, but my doctor barely listened. They just prescribed medication without really asking more questions.” This reflects concerns raised in existing literature that rushed consultations and lack of patient-centered care can discourage individuals from fully confiding in their doctors.

For some participants, past negative experiences shaped their reluctance to seek medical advice. P9 stated: “A doctor once dismissed my concerns as stress, so I stopped going for check-ups regularly.” This indicate that perceived dismissiveness or misdiagnosis can lead to healthcare avoidance and poor health outcomes.

On the other hand, participants who found healthcare providers who actively listened and engaged in meaningful conversations reported feeling more comfortable. P12 said: “My doctor asked me detailed questions and took the time to explain my condition. That helped me trust them more and follow my treatment plan.” This implies that effective communication and shared decision-making improve patient satisfaction and treatment adherence. This finding is strongly supported by empirical research emphasizing the role of patient-provider communication in promoting trust, disclosure, and adherence to treatment. Studies indicate that patients are more likely to fully confide in healthcare professionals when they perceive them as empathetic, attentive, and non-judgmental [49,51]. Conversely, negative experiences such as dismissive attitudes, rushed consultations, or previous misdiagnoses can reduce disclosure and discourage engagement with healthcare services [52,53]. Evidence also suggests that patient-centered care, which includes active listening and shared decision-making, enhances trust, satisfaction, and adherence to treatment recommendations [50,54]. The findings from this study mirror these patterns, showing that emerging adults with mental illness who felt understood and supported by their doctors were more willing to disclose concerns and adhere to medication, whereas those encountering dismissiveness experienced anxiety, reluctance, and reduced adherence. These results highlight the critical importance of fostering positive, communicative relationships between patients and healthcare providers to improve health outcomes.

The Full Support of a Spouse
The support of a spouse plays a significant role in an individual’s emotional resilience, recovery, and overall well-being, especially when facing difficult experiences. Research suggests that spousal support is a critical factor in mental health, providing both emotional reassurance and practical assistance during challenging times [55]. When individuals feel understood and supported by their spouse, they are more likely to cope effectively with stress and trauma [56].

Participants in this study highlighted the impact of spousal support on their ability to navigate difficult situations. Some recounted that their spouse’s encouragement and understanding were essential in helping them manage their emotions. For instance, P3 shared: “At first, I was scared to tell my husband everything, but when I finally did, he held my hands and told me we would get through it together. That changed everything for me.” This implies that perceived emotional support from a spouse enhances psychological well-being and reduces stress [57].

However, not all participants experienced the same level of support. Some recounted instances where their spouse’s reaction was indifferent or dismissive. P5 stated: “I expected him to stand by me, but instead, he acted as if it was not important. I felt alone.” This reflects findings in the literature that lack of spousal support can contribute to feelings of isolation and distress [58]. When a spouse does not provide the necessary emotional or practical assistance, individuals may experience increased vulnerability to anxiety and depression [59].

In contrast, those who received consistent and affirming support from their spouse reported better emotional stability and confidence. P17 recounted: “My wife listened to me without judgment, and even when I was struggling, she kept reassuring me. Knowing she was there for me made a huge difference.” This supports studies showing that emotional validation from a spouse fosters resilience and enhances one’s ability to handle adversity [60].

Furthermore, research indicates that spousal support extends beyond emotional reassurance to include tangible help, such as assisting with daily responsibilities and providing financial support during tough times [61]. P9 mentioned: “My husband not only comforted me but also helped me take time off work so I could focus on healing.” This exemplifies how instrumental support from a spouse can be just as important as emotional support.

Overall, the presence of a supportive spouse serves as a protective factor against emotional distress and contributes to a sense of security. Encouraging open communication, empathy, and mutual support in marital relationships can significantly improve an individual’s ability to cope with life’s challenges.

The theme “The Full Support of a Spouse” is well-supported by empirical research emphasizing the critical role of spousal support in mental health and well-being. Studies consistently show that emotional reassurance, practical assistance, and active involvement from a spouse enhance resilience, reduce stress, and improve coping mechanisms during challenging situations [55,56]. Participants in this study reported that supportive spouses provided both emotional comfort and tangible help, which facilitated adherence to treatment regimens and strengthened psychological stability. This aligns with research indicating that perceived spousal support is linked to lower levels of anxiety and depression, greater emotional stability, and improved overall well-being [57,61]. Conversely, participants who experienced indifferent or dismissive responses from spouses reported feelings of isolation and increased vulnerability to mental health challenges, reflecting findings that lack of spousal support contributes to emotional distress [58,59]. Recent studies also emphasize that spousal support enhances coping in emerging adults and other populations, highlighting the importance of both emotional validation and instrumental assistance in promoting adaptive outcomes [62,63]. The findings of this study reinforce the buffering hypothesis of Social Support Theory, which posits that supportive relationships mitigate stress and promote adaptive health behaviors [23]. Participants who reported consistent emotional and instrumental support demonstrated stronger adherence behaviors, suggesting that social networks function as protective mechanisms against treatment discontinuation.

Family involvement emerged as particularly influential, reflecting the collectivist orientation prevalent in Nigerian society, where family structures often remain central into adulthood [32]. Unlike Western contexts that emphasize individual autonomy, adherence among Nigerian emerging adults appears embedded within relational accountability systems.

Spousal support demonstrated unique salience. Emotional validation and practical assistance from spouses enhanced adherence consistency, aligning with findings that marital support predicts improved psychological outcomes and treatment engagement [56,61,64].

Healthcare provider communication also significantly shaped adherence. Participants who experienced patient-centered care and shared decision-making reported greater trust and medication confidence. This finding supports evidence that empathetic doctor–patient relationships improve adherence and health outcomes [51,54].

Conversely, stigma and supernatural attributions of mental illness within families created barriers to adherence. This reflects broader literature documenting the impact of cultural stigma on mental health treatment engagement in Nigeria [9,21].