Level of community mental health literacy in sub-Saharan Africa: Current studies are limited in number, scope, spread, and cognizance of cultural nuances

Abstract

Background: The combination of high prevalence of mental disorders and the scarcity of resources to care for them in sub-Saharan Africa underscores the need for good mental health literacy as a potential mental health resource. Aim: To conduct a systematic review of the findings of studies that have examined aspects of mental health literacy among community dwellers in sub-Saharan Africa. Methods: A search was conducted using local and international indexes like MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsychInfo. Results: Only 19 studies from eight different countries met inclusion criteria. Key aspects of the functional mental health literacy that has been examined include recognition of mental disorders, knowledge about causation, and treatment preferences. The modes of seeking mental health information are yet to be examined. Some studies utilized a methodology that allowed for respondents to use local labels to describe their understanding of various mental disorders. Otherwise, respondents were largely unable to label orthodox psychiatry syndromes correctly. Supernatural and ultra-human views were rampant, and alternative mental health services were mostly preferred. Quantitative modes of assessment were the most common, and authors—especially those that adopted this mode of assessment—did not take full cognizance of socio-cultural underpinnings of the concept of mental health literacy in their conclusion and recommendations. Conclusion: There is need for more studies to adopt more comprehensive approaches to the assessment of mental health literacy. The outcomes of such studies will provide the right context for making profound statements on the level of knowledge and skills for mental health promotion in sub-Saharan Africa.

• Health seeking
• Mental health literacy
• Mental illness
• Pathways to care
• Sub-Saharan Africa

Declaration of interest: The author report no conflicts of interest. The author alone is responsible for the content and writing of the paper.