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Soori BIP, Regmi K, Pappas Y. Factors Influencing the Integration of Traditional Medicine and Mainstream Medicine in Mental Health Services in West Africa: A Systematic Review Using Narrative Synthesis. Community Ment Health J 2024; 60:1117-1130. [PMID: 38619699 PMCID: PMC11199277 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-024-01263-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
This study explored the enablers and obstacles to the integration of traditional medicine and mainstream medicine in mental health services in West Africa. This study is a systematic review conducted in accordance with the relevant parts of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses. Keywords searches were done in databases, and other reference lists were also searched. The Rainbow model of integrated care and a thematic analysis framework were used to account for the factors influencing the integration of traditional medicine and mainstream medicine in mental health services in West Africa. A total of 12 studies met the eligibility criteria after the evaluation of 6413 articles from databases and reference lists. The themes of: policy and implementation; different conceptualisation of mental health/referrals; trust issues, and education and training, were enablers or obstacles of integration depending on how they worked to facilitate or hinder integration. There was an indication of little integration of TM and MM at the macro, meso and micro levels in mental health services in West Africa. Though the study does cover all the West African states evenly, it is recommended that policy-makers and stakeholders interested in integration should ensure integration activities, especially policies, cut across all the levels of the rainbow model of integrated care and are planned and aligned at the macro, meso and micro levels instead of using ad hoc measures, informal initiatives or placing TM services in MM mental health services, which do not amount to integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Batuuroh I P Soori
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, LU2 8LE, UK.
| | - Krishna Regmi
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, LU2 8LE, UK
| | - Yannis Pappas
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, LU2 8LE, UK
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2
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Gyimah L, Ofori-Atta A, Asafo S, Curry L. Seeking Healing for a Mental Illness: Understanding the Care Experiences of Service Users at a Prayer Camp in Ghana. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2023; 62:1853-1871. [PMID: 36066726 PMCID: PMC9986410 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-022-01643-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Human rights abuses in mental health care are a global concern. Addressing the problem requires input from key stakeholders, particularly from people using mental health services. This study explored the experiences of persons with mental illness receiving care in a faith-based setting in Ghana. The study employed a qualitative design, with in-depth interviews (n = 23) and focus groups (n = 18 participants in 3 groups). The constant comparative method of analysis was used to identify themes in participants' descriptions of their experiences. The first three themes identified are consistent with human rights and coercion, and the last two themes related to service users' views on participation in spiritual practices. Themes included: decision-making around care; consent and efficacy of religious healing; experiences with chaining; views around biomedical treatment; participation in religious activities as part of healing and recognition of the need for spiritual healing. It was observed that participants with prior experience of psychiatric treatment were happy about the absence of chaining in psychiatric facilities but strongly disliked the side effects of medications. These findings underscore the need for faith-based institutions to provide care that is consistent with patient preferences, thereby helping to address the resultant human rights abuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Gyimah
- Pantang Hospital, P.O. Box PL81, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
| | - A Ofori-Atta
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Ghana School of Medicine and Dentistry, Accra, Ghana
| | - S Asafo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Ghana School of Medicine and Dentistry, Accra, Ghana
| | - L Curry
- Yale University, New Haven, USA
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Quarshie ENB, Davies PA, Acharibasam JW, Owiredua C, Atorkey P, Quarshie DA, Quarshie SNS. Clergy-Perpetrated Sexual Abuse in Ghana: A Media Content Analysis of Survivors, Offenders, and Offence Characteristics. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2022; 61:3028-3054. [PMID: 34545455 PMCID: PMC9314302 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-021-01430-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
While there are no official data and published studies on clergy-perpetrated sexual abuse (CPSA) from Ghana, local media reports continue to show worrying trends of the phenomenon. We drew on 73 media reports from January 2000 to March 2019, to describe the offence characteristics and profiles of the perpetrators and survivors of CPSA in Ghana. The findings showed females aged 10-19 as predominant survivors. The perpetrators were all males found guilty of lone rape, incest, defilement, indecent assault, sodomy, attempted rape, or gang rape. A preventive measure could involve streamlining the recruitment, training, and leadership structures of the church.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Nii-Boye Quarshie
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT West Yorkshire UK
- Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Centre for Suicide and Violence Research, Accra, Ghana
| | | | | | - Christiana Owiredua
- School of Law, Psychology and Social Work, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Prince Atorkey
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
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Agyemang CB. Emotional labour influences on psychological health: The moderating role of religiosity. JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY IN AFRICA 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/14330237.2021.1927352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Collins Badu Agyemang
- Department of Psychology, College of Humanities, University of Ghana, Legon-Accra, Ghana
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Essien B, Asamoah MK. Reviewing the Common Barriers to the Mental Healthcare Delivery in Africa. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2020; 59:2531-2555. [PMID: 32691189 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-020-01059-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The current paper sought to thematically present common challenges associated with mental healthcare services in Africa. We largely limited our search for literature materials to studies published from 2003 to 2019 in African countries from which the findings showed that there are common challenges confronting mental healthcare services in Africa. The challenges include: inadequate mental healthcare facilities, funding constraints, shortage of professional healthcare workers, inadequate training and development scheme for mental health workers and weak mental healthcare policies. Implications for policy and practice are disclosed and recommendations are stated to trigger actions to remedy the situation. This information is beneficial for researchers, policymakers, mental healthcare providers and community members who are interested in mental healthcare issues. It was concluded that in order for Africa to enjoy successful mental healthcare service, critical and enduring attention must focus on sound and enforceable government policy on mental healthcare service, provision of adequate and regular funding, availability of adequate mental healthcare facilities, provision of training and development facilities for the mental health professionals and collaboration of mental healthcare providers.
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Osei-Tutu A, Dzokoto VA, Affram AA, Adams G, Norberg J, Doosje B. Cultural Models of Well-Being Implicit in Four Ghanaian Languages. Front Psychol 2020; 11:1798. [PMID: 32849062 PMCID: PMC7399099 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This contribution to the collection of articles on "African Cultural Models" considers the topic of well-being. Reflecting modern individualist selfways of North American and European worlds, normative conceptions of well-being in hegemonic psychological science tend to valorize self-acceptance, personal growth, and autonomy. In contrast, given the embedded interdependence of everyday life in many West African worlds, one can hypothesize that cultural models of well-being in many Ghanaian settings will place greater emphasis on sustainability-oriented themes of material sufficiency and successful navigation of normative obligations. To explore this hypothesis, we interviewed local cultural experts who function as custodians of religion and an important source of support for well-being in many Ghanaian settings. We asked participants to identify and explain models of well-being implicit in four Ghanaian languages (Akan, Dagbani, Ewe, and Ga). Participants were 19 men and 15 women (age range 32-92 years; Mean = 59.83; SD: 14.01). Results reveal some features of local models, including good health and positive affective states, that appear to resonate with standard understandings of well-being in hegemonic psychological science. However, results also provide evidence for other features of local models - specifically, good living (including moral living, material success, and proper relationality) and peace of mind - associated with a sustainability or maintenance orientation to well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annabella Osei-Tutu
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Post-Doctoral Fellowship-Programme, Frankfurt, Germany.,Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Vivian A Dzokoto
- Department of African American Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | | | - Glenn Adams
- Department of Psychology, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States
| | - Joakim Norberg
- School of Law, Psychology and Social Work, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Bertjan Doosje
- Social Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Tuffour I. "There is anointing everywhere": An interpretative phenomenological analysis of the role of religion in the recovery of Black African service users in England. J Psychiatr Ment Health Nurs 2020; 27:352-361. [PMID: 31913535 DOI: 10.1111/jpm.12589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
WHAT IS KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT?: Religion plays important role in recovery from mental illness. Religion can have both positive and negative effects on recovery. WHAT DOES THIS PAPER ADD TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: It is conceivable for Black African service users (BASUs) to engage with the mainstream mental health services at the onset of their symptoms. BASUs see mental illness and recovery through the lens of religion. They mostly use Pentecostalism and traditional African healing systems to aid their recovery. The mainstream mental health system and the traditional African healing system exist in harmony for BASUs who are open to simultaneously access both services. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE?: There is a need to recognize that most Black Africans have unique ways of practising their Christianity. Thus, broad changes are needed in the services to support religious coping tailored to the individual persons in their recovery journey. There is a need for service providers and healthcare professionals to integrate Pentecostalism and traditional African healing systems into the recovery processes. It should equally be recognized that such changes could trigger confusion, dilemmas and paradoxes. Service providers and healthcare professionals must build partnership and collaborative working with cultural practitioners and the clergy from the Black African communities to facilitate recovery and address any misunderstandings. ABSTRACT: Introduction Religion is an important impetus for recovery. However, there has been little work examining the role of religion in recovery for Black African service users (BASUs) in England. Aim The aim of this study was to explore how religion influences recovery from mental illness for BASUs in England. Method Twelve Black African service users were purposively selected and interviewed using face-to-face semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Results The study generates fascinating insights that BASUs views about mental illness and recovery are influenced by Pentecostalism and traditional African healing systems. Discussion The participants' perceptions of their mental illness experiences and recovery which are characterized by the pragmatism of Pentecostalism and cultural beliefs are consistent with what is reported in the literature. Implications for practice The findings of the study show that broad changes are needed to accommodate the religious coping of BASUs in their recovery journey.
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Anum A, Washington-Nortey M, Dzokoto V. Strategic planning in LAMIC mental health research: A Ghana case study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MENTAL HEALTH 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/00207411.2020.1719621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Adote Anum
- Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Vivian Dzokoto
- Department of African American Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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Badu E, Mitchell R, O'Brien AP. Pathways to mental health treatment in Ghana: Challenging biomedical methods from herbal- and faith-healing perspectives. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2019; 65:527-538. [PMID: 31277557 DOI: 10.1177/0020764019862305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinical pathways for treating mental illness have received global attention. Several empirical studies have been undertaken on treatment pathways in Ghana. No study, however, has systematically reviewed the literature related to the pathways of mental health treatment in Ghana. AIM This article aims to identify the pathways used to treat mental illnesses; examine the evidence about the possibility of collaboration between biomedical, faith and traditional healing pathways; and draw attention to the barriers hindering such collaboration. METHODS A search of the published literature was conducted using Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL (EBSCO), Web of Science and Scopus databases. The search was limited to the articles that were published in English and released between 2000 and June 2018. The review synthesises both qualitative and quantitative data. RESULTS The findings showed that mental illnesses in Ghana are treated using a mixture of biomedical and faith-based and traditional healing services. Faith and traditional healing pathways are typically used as a preliminary source of cultural assessment before seeking biomedical treatment. There is an increasing desire for collaboration between biomedical, faith and traditional healing pathways. However, several individual factors (attitude or stigma, the perceived efficacy of treatment and differences in the treatment process) and health system factors (a lack of policy and regulation, a limited number of biomedical service providers, limited financial support and geographical isolation of services) jointly contribute to barriers precluding establishing such collaboration. CONCLUSION This review recommends that policies, regulations, educational support and financial incentives should be developed to facilitate collaboration between biomedical, faith and traditional healing service provision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Badu
- 1 School of Nursing and Midwifery, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Rebecca Mitchell
- 2 Faculty of Business and Economics, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anthony Paul O'Brien
- 3 Faculty of Health and Medicine, School of Nursing and Midwifery, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
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Kpobi L, Swartz L. Indigenous and faith healing in Ghana: A brief examination of the formalising process and collaborative efforts with the biomedical health system. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2019; 11:e1-e5. [PMID: 31368322 PMCID: PMC6676929 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v11i1.2035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Health seeking in many African countries typically involves making use of multiple healing systems, including indigenous and faith systems, as well as biomedical healthcare systems. These different systems have co-existed for many years in Africa, including in Ghana. Aim In this article, we examine the formalising processes that non-biomedical healthcare in Ghana has undergone in postcolonial times. We first present a brief historical analysis of the process of organising indigenous medical systems into formal bodies. We then conclude by exploring collaborative efforts that have been undertaken between biomedical and non-biomedical health systems in Ghana. Method A historical analysis of formalised indigenous healing systems in Ghana was done through an examination of relevant literature. Results Formal groups of indigenous healers in Ghana who are organised into specific categories have undergone various transformations over the years. Evidence also exists of collaborative programmes developed with traditional healers in Ghana, although these have been largely for primary health partnerships. With regard to mental health collaborations, attempts at integration have been generally unsuccessful, with various factors identified as hindering successful partnerships. Conclusion Indigenous healing is an important component of healthcare in Ghana. Collaboration between the different healthcare systems can be strengthened through accurate understandings of how key stakeholders are situated (and indeed situate themselves) in the conversation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Kpobi
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch.
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Kpobi L, Swartz L. Indigenous and faith healing for mental health in Ghana: An examination of the literature on reported beliefs, practices and use of alternative mental health care in Ghana. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2019; 11:e1-e5. [PMID: 31368321 PMCID: PMC6676964 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v11i1.1941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Revised: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background For many people in African countries, various forms of health care are utilised for the treatment of illness. This pluralistic nature of health seeking includes the use of indigenous, faith and allopathic medicines for care. Aim In this article, our aim was to gain insight into the existing knowledge on indigenous and faith healing in Ghana, with a particular focus on mental health care. We first examine the reported mental health beliefs and practices of Ghanaian alternative healers. Following this, we look at the use and purported preference for non-biomedical mental health care by patients. Methods Relevant literature was examined to explore the beliefs, practices and use of non-biomedical mental health care systems in Ghana Results Evidence for the use and preference for non-biomedical mental health care is largely anecdotal. Similarly, the mental health beliefs of alternative healers have been documented in various small-scale studies. However, such information is important if mental health services in Ghana are to be improved. Conclusion Integration of the different healthcare systems must be built on knowledge of beliefs and methods. A clearer understanding of the work of non-biomedical healers is important if appropriate recommendations are to be made for collaboration between biomedical and non-biomedical systems in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Kpobi
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch.
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Osafo J, Akotia CS, Quarshie ENB, Andoh-Arthur J, Boakye KE. Community leaders' attitudes towards and perceptions of suicide and suicide prevention in Ghana. Transcult Psychiatry 2019; 56:529-551. [PMID: 30907246 DOI: 10.1177/1363461518824434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Community leaders can play an important role in suicide prevention because they are potential gatekeepers in resource-poor settings. To investigate their attitudes towards suicide and the role they play when people are in suicidal crisis, 10 community leaders were interviewed in a rural community in Ghana. Thematic Analysis of the interviews showed that leaders held two conflicting views about suicide: health crisis and moral taboo. They also viewed the reasons for suicide as psychosocial strains more than psychiatric factors. Though they viewed suicide as a moral taboo, they maintained a more neutral position in their gatekeeping role: providing support for persons in suicidal crisis more often than exerting a condemnatory attitude. Implications for gatekeeper training are discussed.
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Nartey AK, Badu E, Agyei-Baffour P, Gyamfi N, Opoku MP, O'Brien AP, Mitchell R. The predictors of treatment pathways to mental health services among consumers in Ghana. Perspect Psychiatr Care 2019; 55:300-310. [PMID: 30648278 DOI: 10.1111/ppc.12350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore factors influencing treatment pathways to mental health services among consumers in Ghana. DESIGN AND METHODS Cross-sectional design using quantitative method. FINDINGS Treatment pathways for mental illness were general hospitals/clinics, psychiatric hospitals, and faith-based practices. The predisposing (age, household size, primary occupation, ethnicity, marital status, religion, and geographic location, as well as attitudes and beliefs), enabling (affordability), and need factors (severity of mental illness) were significant predictors of treatment pathways. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Current advocacy and awareness for mental health services in Ghana should consider the predisposing, enabling, and need factors of consumers. Policy initiatives on mental health services should ensure adequate financing mechanisms and further establish collaboration between biomedical and faith-based services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Korley Nartey
- Techiman Municipal Health Directorate/Ghana Health Services, Techiman, Ghana
| | - Eric Badu
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, School of Nursing and Midwifery, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Peter Agyei-Baffour
- Department of Health Policy, Management and Economics/School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Naomi Gyamfi
- Department of Health Promotion and Disability Studies, Centre for Disability and Rehabilitation Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | | | - Rebecca Mitchell
- Faculty of Business and Economics, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
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Akotia CS, Knizek BL, Hjelmeland H, Kinyanda E, Osafo J. Reasons for attempting suicide: An exploratory study in Ghana. Transcult Psychiatry 2019; 56:233-249. [PMID: 30299212 DOI: 10.1177/1363461518802966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the reasons for suicide attempts among patients in Ghana. Semi-structured interviews were conducted among 30 informants who had been hospitalized for attempted suicide. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used to analyse the transcribed narratives, and five main themes emerged: 1) lack of support; 2) abandonment; 3) shame; 4) existential struggles; and 5) supernatural reasons. There were gender differences with abandonment reported by only women and shame associated with economic difficulties reported only by men. Findings are discussed within the context of a socio-cultural theory of suicide behaviour, and implications for the prevention of suicide and care of suicidal persons are suggested.
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de-Graft Aikins A. Health psychology in Ghana: A review of the multidisciplinary origins of a young sub-field and its future prospects. J Health Psychol 2018; 23:425-441. [PMID: 29502454 DOI: 10.1177/1359105317752805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This article presents a historical overview of psychology applied to health and health psychology in Ghana. A brief history of health, illness and healthcare in Ghana is introduced. Then, the history of psychology in Ghana is presented, with signposts of the major turns in the field in relation to psychology and other disciplines applied to health and the emergence of health psychology as a sub-field. Selected health psychology studies are reviewed to highlight ideological trends in the field. Finally, future prospects are considered in terms of how the sub-field can transition into an established critical field with unique contributions to make to global health psychology.
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Gloria O, Osafo J, Goldmann E, Parikh NS, Nonvignon J, Kretchy IMA. The experiences of providing caregiving for patients with schizophrenia in the Ghanaian context. Arch Psychiatr Nurs 2018; 32:815-822. [PMID: 30454622 DOI: 10.1016/j.apnu.2018.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Odue Gloria
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Science, University of Ghana, Ghana
| | - Joseph Osafo
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Science, University of Ghana, Ghana; Centre for Suicide and Violence Research, Ghana.
| | - Emily Goldmann
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Global Public Health, New York University, United States.
| | - Nina S Parikh
- College of Global Public Health, New York University, United States.
| | - Justice Nonvignon
- Department of Health Policy, Planning & Management, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Ghana.
| | - Irene M A Kretchy
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana.
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Badu E, O’Brien AP, Mitchell R. An integrative review of potential enablers and barriers to accessing mental health services in Ghana. Health Res Policy Syst 2018; 16:110. [PMID: 30445980 PMCID: PMC6240297 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-018-0382-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The importance of accessible mental health treatment is a global concern, particularly when one in five people will experience a mental health problem in their lifespan. This is no less important in Ghana; however, no studies have yet attempted to appraise and synthesise the potential enablers and barriers to accessing services in Ghana. The aim of this integrative review is therefore to identify and synthesise existing evidence on the barriers and enablers to accessing mental health services in Ghana. METHODS A search of the published literature was conducted using Medline, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL (EBSCO), Web of Science, and Scopus electronic databases. The search was limited to papers published in English and within 2000-2018. Using pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria, two reviewers independently screened the titles and abstracts of the retrieved papers. A data extraction form and a Critical Appraisal Checklist were used to extract and appraise data, respectively. The integrative review incorporates both qualitative and quantitative data into a single synthesis. RESULTS Out of 42 papers that met the inclusion criteria, 50% used qualitative methods, 33.3% used mixed methods and 16.7% used quantitative methods alone. The potential barriers in accessing mental health services were attitudinal, knowledge about services, treatment cost, transportation and geographical proximity, as well as perceived efficacy of medication. Similarly, the health systems factors contributing to barriers were low priority, limited funding sources, irregular medicine supply, limited services for marginalised groups and poor state of psychiatric facilities, together with poor management of mental health cadres. The potential enablers for service users involved increased decentralisation and integration, task-shifting and existing support services. CONCLUSION The existing evidence on mental health in Ghana is skewed towards weaknesses in the systems and stigma, with rationally little, or no, evidence or emphasis on the effectiveness, or quality of mental health services. These attributes largely neglect the provision of psychiatric services for marginalised mental health service user groups, including children, adolescents, people with disabilities and the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Badu
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, School of Nursing and Midwifery, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW Australia
| | - Anthony Paul O’Brien
- Faculty Health and Medicine, School of Nursing and Midwifery, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, 2308 NSW Australia
| | - Rebecca Mitchell
- Health Services Research Centre, Faculty of Business and Economics, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW Australia
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Kpobi L, Swartz L. Implications of healing power and positioning for collaboration between formal mental health services and traditional/alternative medicine: the case of Ghana. Glob Health Action 2018. [PMID: 29529937 PMCID: PMC5912442 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2018.1445333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many current debates about global mental health have increasingly called for collaboration between biomedical and traditional medical health systems. Despite these calls, not much has been written about the variables that would influence such collaboration. To a large extent, collaboration dialogues have considered biomedicine on the one hand, and a wide range of traditional and faith-based treatments on the other hand. However, this dualistic bifurcation does not reflect the plurality of healing systems in operation in many contexts, and the diverse investments that different non-biomedical healing approaches may have in their own power to heal. OBJECTIVE We set out to explore the diversity of different healers' perceptions of power, and the relationship between that power and the perceived power of biomedical approaches. METHODS Through a qualitative design, and using the case of medical pluralism in urban Ghana as an example, we conducted interviews among different categories of traditional and alternative medicine (TAM) practitioners living and/or working in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. RESULTS Through thematic analyses, differences in the notions about collaboration between the different categories of healers were identified. Their perceptions of whether collaboration would be beneficial seemed, from this study, to co-occur with their perceptions of their own power. CONCLUSIONS We suggest that an important way to move debates forward about collaboration amongst different sectors is to examine the notions of power and positioning of different categories of TAM healers in relation to biomedicine, and the attendant implications of those notions for integrative mental healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Kpobi
- a Department of Psychology , Stellenbosch University , Stellenbosch , South Africa
| | - Leslie Swartz
- a Department of Psychology , Stellenbosch University , Stellenbosch , South Africa
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Kpobi LNA, Swartz L. 'The threads in his mind have torn': conceptualization and treatment of mental disorders by neo-prophetic Christian healers in Accra, Ghana. Int J Ment Health Syst 2018; 12:40. [PMID: 30061921 PMCID: PMC6056911 DOI: 10.1186/s13033-018-0222-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In many low- and middle-income countries, faith healing is used alongside biomedical treatment for many health problems including mental disorders. Further, Christianity in Africa has seen much transformation in recent decades with the growth of charismatic or neo-prophetic churches whose doctrines include healing, miracles and prophecies. As such, many charismatic pastors have been engaged in faith healing for many years. Such faith healers form a significant portion of the mental health workforce in these countries, partly due to the limited number of biomedically trained professionals. In this study, we sought to examine the beliefs of charismatic/neo-Pentecostal faith healers about mental disorders, as well as to examine the treatments that they employed to treat such disorders. METHODS We interviewed neo-prophetic pastors who undertook faith healing, and examined their work relating to mental disorders. Ten pastors from eight churches in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana were interviewed using semi-structured interviews. RESULTS The data suggest that the pastors' conceptualization of mental illness was generally limited to psychotic disorders. Their beliefs about causation were predominantly supernatural in nature although they acknowledged that drug misuse and road traffic accidents were also potential causes. The pastors' expectations of healing also showed different perceptions of illness chronicity. Their diagnostic and treatment methods revolved around using prayer, prayer aids such as oils and holy water, as well as spiritual counselling for patients and their caregivers. However, they were not opposed to referring patients to hospitals when deemed necessary. CONCLUSION We discuss the above results with emphasis on their implications for collaboration between biomedical and alternative healing systems in Ghana. In particular, we advocate a mutual understanding of illness perspectives between biomedical practitioners and faith healers as an important component for integrating different health systems in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily N. A. Kpobi
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Leslie Swartz
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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Osafo J, Knizek BL, Mugisha J, Kinyanda E. The experiences of caregivers of children living with HIV and AIDS in Uganda: a qualitative study. Global Health 2017; 13:72. [PMID: 28899415 PMCID: PMC5596491 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-017-0294-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Home-based care for HIV patients is popular in contexts severely affected by the epidemic and exacts a heavy toll on caregivers. This study aimed at understanding the experiences of caregivers and their survival strategies. Methods A total of 18 caregivers (3 males and 15 females) were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide, and thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Results Analysis suggests that the caregivers are burdened with insecure provisions for food and difficulties in accessing health care. They however survived these strains through managing their relationships, sharing burden with care-recipients, social networks and instrumental spirituality. These findings are discussed under two major themes: 1). Labour of caregiving and 2). Survivalism. Conclusions Home-based care presents huge opportunities for community response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in African settings. It is however burdensome and thus should not be left for families alone to shoulder. There is therefore an urgent need for protecting home-based care for HIV children in Uganda. Implications for improving and strengthening social interventions in home-based care of HIV/AIDS in the Ugandan context are addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Osafo
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Suicide and Violence Research , School of Social Sciences, University of Ghana, P. O. Box LG84, Legon, Ghana.
| | - Birthe Loa Knizek
- Department of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - James Mugisha
- Kyambogo University, Kampala, Uganda.,Butabika National Psychiatric Referral Hospital, P.o.Box 7017, Off Old Port Bell, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Eugene Kinyanda
- Mental Health Project, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute (MRC/UVRI). Uganda Research Unit on AIDS, Uganda and Senior Wellcome Trust Fellowship, Kampala, Uganda
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Opare-Henaku A, Utsey SO. Culturally prescribed beliefs about mental illness among the Akan of Ghana. Transcult Psychiatry 2017; 54:502-522. [PMID: 28612682 DOI: 10.1177/1363461517708120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Mental illness is a culturally laden phenomenon, and different cultures have unique ways of constructing mental illness. In this study, conceptions of mental illness were explored among 30 participants of Akan descent in Ghana through individual and group interviews. Participants demonstrated a wide range of knowledge on mental illness indicating that poor self-care, deficits in social functioning, and disordered behaviors are the cardinal features of mental illness. The data revealed that Akan cultural beliefs influenced notions of etiology of mental illness and care of the mentally ill. While participants recognized the role of multiple factors such as genetics, substance abuse, daily hassles (for example, concerns about basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter), and trauma in the cause of mental illness, the predominant belief was that mental illness is a retributive and/or a spiritual illness. This belief encourages pluralistic health-seeking behaviors: use of hospitals, prayer camps, herbalists, and traditional healers. The implications of these findings for public health education on mental illness, and clinical training and practice are discussed.
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Asamoah MK. Leveraging the Deliverance Phenomenon: Penteco/Charismatic Vista. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2016; 55:1642-1664. [PMID: 26912091 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-016-0209-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
This article reflects on the deliverance concept within Classical Pentecostalism and Neo-Pentecostalism against historical and contemporary considerations. The research design combined ethnography and case study. Participant observation and in-depth interviews were used for data collection. Findings include: overstretched demonic mentality; the notion that the Penteco/Charismatic believer cannot be possessed but could be harassed by demons; and dehumanizing situations inherent in deliverance practice. It is recommended that sanity, care and collaboration be established amongst deliverance practitioners, psychologists, psychiatrists, professional counsellors as well as other business experts to ensure a holistic deliverance practice and also to enhance the dignity and value of the deliverance ministry in Ghana and Africa at large.
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Determinants of Psychological Help-Seeking Intentions of University Students in Ghana. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF COUNSELLING 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s10447-015-9247-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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