Monday, 16 January 2017

Experiences, Strengths and Challenges of Integration of Mental Health into Primary Care in Ethiopia

Integration of Mental Health
The burden of mental disorders is increaasing in low and middle income countries including Ethiopia but the number of psychiatry professionals is scarce. Integrating mental health in primary health care is vital to address the problem. This survey aimed in assessing the experiences, strengths and challenges of integrating mental health in primary health care in Ethiopia.

Facility based supervisions was done in primary health care centers where the scale up program was implemented and giving mental health services. Semi structured and standardized WHO mental health Global Action Programme support and supervision questionnaires was used to collect information's.

Findings: A total of 1576 mental, neurological and substance use (MNS) disorders were identified and treated in selected four regions. Majority of identified cases were epilepsy (46.64%) followed by psychosis (28.49%). Essential drugs for treating psychosis, depression and epilepsy were available in almost all health institutions.

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