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Reporting

Culture – a panacea to the high mental health treatment gap?

March 30, 2021 | Sophie Mbugua | Africa Climate Conversations

Mental health problems in Kenya and Africa are often interpreted from either a religious or traditional perspective influenced by a person’s cultural perceptions. These perceptions impact not just the provision of care but also determines if and where people seek help. The World Health Organization (WHO) says a growing number of people with mental illness are not receiving mental health care and treatment. Estimates indicate an 85 percent ‘treatment gap’ for low and middle-income countries.

Also listen to previous episodes on mental health 

But a high number of people opt to seek help from either a religious leader or a traditional healer, depending on their cultural beliefs. Can culture help bridge the treatment gap?

The episode is part of the mental health and climate change series, made possible by a grant from the International Women’s Media Foundation’s Howard G. Buffett Fund for Women Journalists.

About the Author

Sophie Mbugua

Sophie Mbugua is an Environmental Journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya, specializing in Climate Change reporting. Sophie produces and presents the Africa Climate Conversations Podcast - a weekly 30 minutes podcast… Read More.

Original Publication
Africa Climate Conversations
Related Topics
Environment
Health
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