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Hunduma G, Dessie Y, Geda B, Assebe Yadeta T, Deyessa N. Mental health dynamics of adolescents: A one-year longitudinal study in Harari, eastern Ethiopia. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300752. [PMID: 38635790 PMCID: PMC11025968 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS This study aims to assess the dynamics of in-school adolescents' mental health problems in Harari regional state, eastern Ethiopia for a year. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using multistage sampling technique, we conducted a year-long longitudinal study at three public high schools between March 2020 and 2021. Three hundred fifty-eight in-school adolescents were chosen by systematic random sampling for the baseline assessment, and 328 completed the follow-up assessment. We used self-administered, adolescent version of SDQ-25 Questionnaire to collect the data. Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test and McNemara's Chi-squared tests were used to examine the median difference and distribution of mental health problems between times one and two. Random-effects logistic regressions on panel data was used to identify factors associated with mental health problems. A p-value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. RESULTS The magnitude of overall mental health problems at baseline assessment was 20.11% (95% CI: 16-25), with internalizing problems accounting for 27.14% (95% CI: 23-32) and externalizing problems accounting for 7.01% (95% CI: 4.6-10.3). At the follow-up assessment, these proportions rose to 22.56% (95% CI, 18-27) for overall problems and 10.3% (95% CI, 7.7-14.45) for externalizing problems. On other hand, internalizing problems decreased unexpectedly to 22.86% (95% CI, 18.6-27.7) at follow-up assessment. Internalizing problem scores at time two were significantly lower than baseline among older adolescents, girls and those with average wealth index in our study cohort. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of mental health problems were high among the study cohort. The proportion of overall problems and externalizing problems has increased over time, indicating a deterioration in the mental health of the study cohort. However, the decrease in internalizing problems among older adolescents, girls, and those with an average wealth index is a positive sign. The findings highlight that tailored interventions are required to reduce externalizing problems and maintain the decrease in internalizing problems. These interventions should target middle-aged and male adolescents from low-income families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gari Hunduma
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Yadeta Dessie
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Biftu Geda
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Madda Walabu University, Shashamene Campus, Shashamene, Ethiopia
| | - Tesfaye Assebe Yadeta
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Negussie Deyessa
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Wogayehu B, Demissie T, Wolka E, Alemayehu M, Daka K. Individual and community-level factors associated with khat ( Catha edulis) use among women of reproductive age in Halaba zone, South Ethiopia: a multilevel mixed effect analysis. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1333556. [PMID: 38439793 PMCID: PMC10910081 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1333556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction There is a paucity of data on factors associated with khat chewing among women of reproductive age using multilevel analysis. Furthermore, the effects of some potential factors like stressful life events, knowledge about and attitude toward the effects of khat have been given little attention and are not well understood. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the prevalence and multilevel factors associated with khat use among women of reproductive age in Halaba zone, South Ethiopia. Methods A community-based cross sectional study was conducted in Halaba zone from February to July, 2023. Systematic random sampling technique was used to include 1573 study participants. The dependent variable was current khat use, which is operationalized as using khat within 30 days preceding the study. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used for the data collection. Results The prevalence of current khat use among women of reproductive age was 65.9% [95%CI (63.5-68.2%)]. Factors significantly associated with khat use were; ages of women 35 and above years [Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 6.35, 95% CI: (3.62, 11.13)], ever married [AOR = 2.41, 95% CI: (1.10, 5.31)], secondary and above education [AOR = 0.28, 95% CI: (0.15, 0.49)], belong to richer household [AOR = 1.75, 95% CI: (1.12, 2.75)], mass media use [AOR = 3.12, 95% CI: (1.85, 4.81)], low knowledge about khat effects [AOR = 3.12, 95% CI: (1.85, 5.24)], positive attitude towards khat use [AOR = 11.55, 95% CI: (6.76, 19.71)], and strong social support [AOR = 0.43, 95% CI: (0.28, 0.64)] and non-user friend [AOR = 0.31, 95% CI: (0.20, 0.48)]. From the community level variables: rural residence [AOR = 5.06, 95% CI: (1.82, 14.09)] was significantly associated with khat use. Conclusion Khat use among women of reproductive age was found to be very high. From individual-level factors: advanced ages of women, secondary and above education, live in the richer wealth quintile, mass media exposure, low knowledge on khat effects, positive attitude towards khat use, strong social support, and from community-level variables: residing in rural area were significantly associated with khat use. Khat use screening for all women of childbearing age, as well as referral to substance use disorder centers for those women identified as having khat use disorder, should become a standard of care in all health facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biruk Wogayehu
- Department of Public Health, Arbaminch College of Health Sciences, Arbaminch, South Region, Ethiopia
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wolaita Sodo University, Sodo, South Region, Ethiopia
| | - Tsegaye Demissie
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wolaita Sodo University, Sodo, South Region, Ethiopia
| | - Eskinder Wolka
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wolaita Sodo University, Sodo, South Region, Ethiopia
| | - Mekuriaw Alemayehu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
| | - Kassa Daka
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wolaita Sodo University, Sodo, South Region, Ethiopia
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Habtamu K, Teferra S, Mihretu A. Exploring the perception of key stakeholders toward khat policy approaches in Ethiopia: a qualitative study. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:115. [PMID: 37633925 PMCID: PMC10463779 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00858-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Khat is an amphetamine-like plant, produced and commonly chewed in Ethiopia by a large group of the population. Although significant multidimensional harms of khat use have been reported, currently, there are no policies or organized activities against khat use in Ethiopia. Therefore, the current study aimed to explore the perception of key stakeholders toward khat policy approaches for Ethiopia. METHODS A qualitative study was conducted using focus group discussion (FGD) and in-depth interview (IDI). Ten stakeholders participated in the IDIs, and another 15 individuals participated in the FGDs. Key stakeholders were appropriately mapped and purposively selected based on their experience related to khat use and khat harm reduction. Interviews and FGDs were led by the study authors and were audio-recorded. The audio-recorded data were transcribed verbatim and then translated into English language. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis approach. RESULTS Participants preferred prevention and law regulation measures for khat policy approaches for Ethiopia. Proposed prevention and law regulation measures included regulating the transportation of khat, limiting the minimum age to buy and sell khat, prohibiting khat use at some public places, banning khat advertising and promotion, and imposing excise tax. Individual level khat harm reduction strategies were also proposed to be useful. However, the participants asserted that total khat ban in Ethiopia is not likely to be feasible and acceptable. CONCLUSION Prevention, treatment or care for individuals with problematic khat use, law regulation, and harm reduction were preferred approaches by stakeholders for khat policy in Ethiopia instead of total banning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kassahun Habtamu
- School of Psychology, College of Education and Behavioral Studies, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Solomon Teferra
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 1176, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Awoke Mihretu
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 1176, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
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Olani AB, Gerbaba M, Getnet M, Soboka M, Decorte T. Is chewing khat associated with mental health disorders? A scoping review of the content and quality of the current evidence base. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2023; 18:39. [PMID: 37370160 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-023-00545-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Khat (Catha edulis) is a plant commonly found in the horn of Africa whose leaves are chewed for their psycho-stimulant effects. Several studies have demonstrated the association between khat use and mental health problems. Nevertheless, evidence is mixed and inconsistent, warranting further review of available studies. This scoping review is aimed at investigating the content and quality of evidence base on the associations between khat use and mental health disorders and suggesting avenues for further research. METHODS We used a scoping review methodology to map the existing evidence using PubMed, SCOPUS, Embase, and CINAHL databases. Primary studies focusing on the association between any pattern of khat use and any form of mental health disorders are included. The review focused on all age groups, any study design, all geographical locations, and any publication year. The terms used for searching eligible studies include khat, mental disorders, and various alternative terminologies. Narrative review is employed to present findings. RESULTS 7,121 articles were found, of which 108 were eligible, conducted across 12 different countries. The majority of the studies was done during the last ten years and the studies mostly employed cross-sectional design. About 10 different categories of mental health disorders have been identified as showing associations with khat use. Despite many contradictory findings between the studies, most of the evidence base suggests that khat use is associated with mental health disorders. Non-specific psychological distress is the most frequently mentioned mental health problem (reported in 26.9% of the studies). Khat use as a predictor variable is mostly assessed using a 'yes/no' category, and as a result, dose-dependent effects of khat use on mental health are not given much consideration. CONCLUSION Although most of the studies associate khat use with mental health disorders, the causal relationships are inconclusive given the cross-sectional design of the studies, and the presence of potential confounders and several forms of biases. Available studies also report contradictory findings. Further studies are recommended using prospective designs, standardized and valid measures of khat use, and focusing on specific types of mental health disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanti Baru Olani
- Institute for Social Drug Research, Department of Criminology, Criminal Law and Social Law, Ghent University, Universiteitstraat 4, Ghent, 9000, Belgium.
- Department of Sociology, Jimma University, Jimma, P.O.Box 378, Ethiopia.
| | - Mulusew Gerbaba
- Department of Epidemiology, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, P.O.Box 378, Ethiopia
| | - Masrie Getnet
- Department of Epidemiology, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, P.O.Box 378, Ethiopia
| | - Matiwos Soboka
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, P.O.Box 378, Ethiopia
| | - Tom Decorte
- Institute for Social Drug Research, Department of Criminology, Criminal Law and Social Law, Ghent University, Universiteitstraat 4, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
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Habte F, Shifa M, Berhanu H. Availability, Price and Affordability of Psychotropic Medicines in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2023; 16:957-970. [PMID: 37250433 PMCID: PMC10216867 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s409929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Access to affordable, quality-assured essential medicines is crucial to reduce the burden of disease. However, one third of the world's population lacks regular access to essential medicines. The purpose of this study was to assess the availability, price, and affordability of medicines for mental disorders in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was done in selected pharmacies after modification of a WHO/HAI methodology developed questionnaire. Data on the availability and price of 28 lowest priced generics and originator brand essential psychotropic medicines were collected from seven public sectors, five private sectors, and seven other sectors (five Kenema Public Community Pharmacies and two Red Cross Pharmacies) in Addis Ababa between May 9 and May 31, 2022. The data were analyzed using the developed WHO/HAI workbook part I Excel sheet. Descriptive results were reported in text and table format. Results The overall availability of lowest-priced generics medication was 41.69%. The availability of lowest-priced generics and originator brand medication was 54.68% and 1.7% in the public pharmacies; 24.14% and 0.0% in private pharmacies; 43% and 0.0% in Red Cross Pharmacies; and 42% and 3.2% in Kenema Public Community Pharmacies. The median price ratio in the public, private, Red Cross, and Kenema Public Community pharmacies was 1.26, 3.72, 1.65, and 1.59, respectively. Most of the medications were unaffordable. A patient could be required to pay up to 73 days wages to purchase a standard treatment for 1 month. Conclusion The availability of psychotropic medicines was lower than the WHO target for non-communicable diseases and most of the available medicines were unaffordable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fikreselam Habte
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Science, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mekdes Shifa
- Department of Pharmacy, Universal Medical and Business College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Hana Berhanu
- Department of Pharmacy, Universal Medical and Business College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Tariku Seboka B, Hailegebreal S, Negash M, Mamo TT, Ali Ewune H, Gilano G, Yehualashet DE, Gizachew G, Demeke AD, Worku A, Endashaw H, Kassawe C, Amede ES, Kassa R, Tesfa GA. Predictors of Mental Health Literacy and Information Seeking Behavior Toward Mental Health Among University Students in Resource-Limited Settings. Int J Gen Med 2022; 15:8159-8172. [PMID: 36389023 PMCID: PMC9664927 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s377791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 09/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This paper investigated mental health literacy level and information seeking behavior, and mental health-related information sources in limited-resource settings, in the case of Ethiopian university students. METHODS A cross-sectional, self-administered web-based survey was conducted among Dilla University students, from 1 January to 29 February 2022, with a total of 780 respondents. We presented descriptive statistics using mean, standard deviations, and proportions. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression were employed to identify factors associated with mental health literacy and information seeking behavior of students. Further, path analysis was also employed. RESULTS The result showed 71 (9.1%) respondents had a diagnosed history of mental illness. Overall, 397 (50.9%) respondents were identified as having adequate mental health literacy and 420 (53.8%) sought mental health information. In multivariate analysis, mental health literacy was significantly associated with: being female (AOR = 2.8; 95% CI (1.5-5.4)), higher digital health literacy (AOR=2.8; 95% CI (1.5-5.4), seeking mental health-related information (AOR=1.6; 95% CI: (1.1-2.5)), having family with mental illness, and students in health-related programs (AOR = 2.1; 95% CI (1.0-4.2)). Furthermore, health-related programs, level of mental health literacy, exposure to mental health problems in the family, and were associated with information seeking behavior regarding mental health. Further, path analysis revealed significant positive associations of information seeking behavior and digital health literacy with mental health literacy. CONCLUSION The result indicated the status of university students' mental health literacy level and information seeking behavior were low and inadequate. This study suggests the need to improve students' digital health competencies by designing mental health literacy programs by collaboration of different stakeholders, and mental health literacy programs need to optimize access to internet and online resources in the university settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Misrak Negash
- Department of Psychiatry, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Girma Gilano
- Department of Health Informatics, Arbaminch University, Arbaminch, Ethiopia
| | | | | | | | - Aynadis Worku
- Department of Health Informatics, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | | | | | | | - Reta Kassa
- School of Public Health, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
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Edwards B, Atkins N. Exploring the association between khat use and psychiatric symptoms: a systematic review. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e061865. [PMID: 35879018 PMCID: PMC9328084 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-061865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Consumption of the drug khat is high across East Africa and the South-Western Arabian Peninsula despite evidence for its adverse psychiatric effects. This systematic review aims to explore cross-sectional research in the field to determine the strength of the association between khat use and psychiatric symptoms METHODS: Six databases were searched in October 2021-Ovid Medline, Embase, APA PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus and Proquest-using the following search terms: "khat" OR "qat" OR "qaad" OR "catha" OR "miraa" OR "mairungi" AND "depression" OR "anxiety" OR "mania" OR "psych*" OR "schiz*" OR "mental" OR "hallucinations" OR "delusions" OR "bipolar". Eligible studies were cross-sectional studies of any population or setting comparing the prevalence of psychiatric symptoms in long term or dependent khat users with non-users. The quality of each study was appraised by the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. A meta-analysis was planned using a random effects model to produce an OR with 95% CIs-using the Mantel-Haenszel method-alongside an I2 statistic to represent heterogeneity. The quality of this meta-analysis was appraised using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) scoring system. RESULTS 35 studies were eligible for inclusion (total participants=31 893), spanning 5 countries (Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, Saudi Arabia, UK). Meta-analysis suggests that khat use is associated with an 122% increased prevalence of psychiatric symptoms (OR 2.22, 95% CIs 1.76 to 2.79, p<0.00001, GRADE score: 'very low'). CONCLUSIONS The high heterogeneity of the meta-analysis is likely due to the wide variation between the studies within the evidence base. To perform a more accurate systematic review, further primary studies are needed with standardised measurements of variables, particularly khat consumption. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020224510.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betsy Edwards
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Naomi Atkins
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Wao H, Wao MA, Muriithi I, Seraii P, Syonguvi J. Availability, accessibility and activation of mental health services among university students in Africa: a protocol of a mixed-methods systematic review with meta-analysis and meta-synthesis. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e059991. [PMID: 35705341 PMCID: PMC9204451 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-059991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In Africa, the prevalence of mental health problems is higher among university students than in the general population. A number of systematic reviews and recent prevalence studies have focused on prevalence of mental health issues among college. This mixed-methods systematic review, including meta-analysis and meta-synthesis, will explore: what mental health services are available to university students; the extent to which students access available services and factors associated with service access; and the degree to which students activate (use) accessible services and factors associated with service activation. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will conduct electronic literature search of the following databases: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Semantic Scholar, ERIC, Trip Database, Medline and PsycINFO. Disagreement, if any, will be resolved by a third reviewer. Two reviewers will independently assess the methodological quality of included studies using relevant tools. For cross-sectional studies, we will use the Joanna Briggs Institute Checklist for Analytical Cross Sectional Studies whereas qualitative or mixed-methods studies will be assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. OR, risk ratio or mean difference with 95% CI will be considered as the effect size. We will assess heterogeneity between studies by appropriate subgroup analyses. Publication bias will be detected using funnel plots. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical clearance is not required as we are not collecting primary data. Findings will be disseminated via relevant scientific conferences and peer-reviewed publications. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42022296870.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesborn Wao
- Research and Related Capacity Strengthening (RRCS), African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Melvin A Wao
- School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, United States International University - Africa (USIU-A), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ian Muriithi
- School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, United States International University - Africa (USIU-A), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Paul Seraii
- School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, United States International University - Africa (USIU-A), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jackline Syonguvi
- Research and Related Capacity Strengthening (RRCS), African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
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Hassen MT, Soboka M, Widmann M, Keller L, Zeller AC, Büchele N, Barnewitz E, Yitayih Y, Schiller S, Senger J, Adorjan K, Odenwald M. Khat Use Patterns, Associated Features, and Psychological Problems in a Khat-Treatment-Seeking Student Sample of Jimma University, Southwestern Ethiopia. Front Public Health 2021; 9:645980. [PMID: 34490174 PMCID: PMC8416611 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.645980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Khat (Catha edulis) is a traditionally used substance in African and Arab countries that contains the amphetamine-like alkaloid cathinone. Khat use among Ethiopian students is a growing concern. This study aims to describe khat use, psychological problems, and motivation to change and to determine associated factors of khat use among students from Jimma University seeking psychological assistance. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, a sample of 717 students from Jimma University, southwestern Ethiopia, who seek assistance to reduce khat use were recruited. The study used Amharic and Afaan Oromoo language versions of common psychological instruments and employed them as part of a comprehensive tablet computer-delivered self-report assessment battery, comprising the SRQ-20, the PCL-5, the LEC-5, the AUDIT, and the SOCRATES-khat. In addition, socio-demographic, economic variables, and functioning problems due to severe mental disorders were assessed. The analysis relied on the data of the 575 included participants and used clinical cut-off values to describe this treatment-seeking sample and hierarchical regression models to determine variables associated with khat use. Results: The sample showed high khat use in the past month (M = 31.55 bundles, SD = 28.53, on M = 15.11 days, SD = 8.54); 17.0% showed highly problematic use. The sample was extremely burdened with comorbid psychiatric problems: 21.6% reported functioning problems due to past mental disorders, 60.2% scored above the cut-off for current common mental disorders, 37.9% screened positive for PTSD, and 47.1% reported hazardous alcohol use. Small to medium intercorrelations between variables were detected, and in hierarchical regression models, higher motivation to change khat use was associated with higher use of the substance. Conclusions: This study clearly shows the need to develop research instruments, screening methods, and assistance services for khat-using students at Jimma University. Study participants' high mental health burden shows the need for targeted intervention programs that go beyond brief interventions for khat use. Furthermore, the study highlights challenges for implementing such services: the barriers to utilization for females and khat users without comorbid mental health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matiwos Soboka
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical Faculty, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Marina Widmann
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,Vivo International e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Lucas Keller
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anja C Zeller
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,Vivo International e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Natascha Büchele
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Eva Barnewitz
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,Vivo International e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Yimenu Yitayih
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical Faculty, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Sabine Schiller
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Jael Senger
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Kristina Adorjan
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Psychiatric Phenomics and Genomics, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Munich, Germany.,Center for International Health (CIHLMU), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Odenwald
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,Vivo International e.V., Konstanz, Germany
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Negash A, Khan MA, Medhin G, Wondimagegn D, Pain C, Araya M. Feasibility and acceptability of brief individual interpersonal psychotherapy among university students with mental distress in Ethiopia. BMC Psychol 2021; 9:64. [PMID: 33906688 PMCID: PMC8077191 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-021-00570-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of mental distress among university students in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is increasing; however, the majority do not receive evidence-based psychological intervention.
This calls for the provision of culturally adapted psychological therapy in higher education institutions in LMICs. The aim of this pilot study is to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of Interpersonal Psychotherapy adapted for Ethiopia (IPT-E) among Wolaita Sodo University students and to assess the preliminary outcomes of IPT-E in reducing symptoms of mental distress and in improving functioning. Methods We used a quasi-experimental single-group pre-post-test study design. As indicators of feasibility of IPT-E, we used consent, treatment completion and attrition. We used Client Satisfaction Questionnaire and semi-structured interview to measure the acceptability of the intervention,
self-reporting IPT-E checklist to assess treatment adherence and World Health Organization Disability Assessment and Self-Reporting Questionnaire-20 tools to assess functional impairment and mental distress, respectively. We used percentage, frequency, mean and standard deviation to summarize the demographic variables, feasibility and acceptability of IPT-E. We analyzed changes from pre- to post-tests of mental distress and functioning results using paired t-test and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Independent sample t-test and one way-ANOVA used to assess the difference in mean score of in demographic variables at baseline and eight weeks. The qualitative data was analyzed with the support of open code 4.02. Results IPT-E was feasible (consent rate = 100%; completion rate = 92.31%; attrition rate = 7.69%; mean score of the sessions = 8 and mode of the session = 8). The total mean score of treatment satisfaction was 27.83 (SD = 4.47). After the delivery of IPT-E, symptoms of mental distress were decreased, functioning was improved and therapist adherence to the treatment model was 100% (i.e. treatment delivered according to the IPT-E guideline). Conclusion IPT-E was feasible and acceptable to treat university students with mental distress in low-income country setting. The preliminary results also suggest promising viability of IPT-E in higher education institutions of low-income country setting for students with symptoms of anxiety and depression. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40359-021-00570-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assegid Negash
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. .,Department of Psychology, College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia.
| | - Matloob Ahmed Khan
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Girmay Medhin
- Aklilu Lemma Institute of Pathobiology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Dawit Wondimagegn
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Clare Pain
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Mesfin Araya
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Mekuriaw B, Mantefardo B, Molla A, Berhanu G, Mehare T, Belayneh Z. Magnitude, Symptom Presentation and Correlates of Psychological Distress Among People with Epilepsy in Southern Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2020; 16:2143-2151. [PMID: 32982252 PMCID: PMC7509324 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s257143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychological distress is a common co-morbid condition among people with epilepsy. Untreated comorbid psychosocial problems are associated with increased morbidity and health-care costs, and negatively affects treatment outcome of people with epilepsy. Therefore, the aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of psychological distress and to identify its associated factors among people with epilepsy attending outpatient treatment in Gedeo zone public hospitals, Southern Ethiopia. PATIENTS AND METHODS This was an institution-based cross-sectional study conducted at Gedeo zone public hospitals from July 1st to October 1st, 2019. Self-reporting questionnaire was used to screen individuals with epilepsy for the presence of co-morbid psychological distress. A face to face interview was conducted among 321 anti-epileptic medication followers. The collected data were entered into Epi-Data version 3.1 and then exported to SPSS version 20 for further analysis. Binary logistic regression was computed to identify factors associated with psychological distress. Statistically, significant association was set at p-values of <0.05 in the final model with a corresponding 95% confidence interval. RESULTS The prevalence of psychological distress was found to be 38.3% with 95% CI (34.1, 42.7) among people with epilepsy attending outpatient follow-up in Gedeo zone public hospitals. Being female [OR=1.57 (95% CI: 1.01-4.80)], uncontrolled seizures [OR=1.96 (95% CI: 1.21-3.18)], and longer duration of illness [OR= 3.16 (95% CI: 1.75-5.73)] were variables found to have statistically significant association with psychological distress. CONCLUSION The findings of this study revealed that more than one-third of people with epilepsy screened positive for psychological distress. Therefore, this demonstrates a need to design and implement programs focusing on the prevention, early screening, and providing appropriate interventions for psychological distress among people with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birhanie Mekuriaw
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health and Medical Science, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Bahru Mantefardo
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health and Medical Science, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Alemayehu Molla
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health and Medical Science, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Getasew Berhanu
- Department of Statistics, College of Natural and Computational Science, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Tsegaye Mehare
- Biomedical Department, College of Health and Medical Science, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Zelalem Belayneh
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health and Medical Science, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
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Belayneh Z, Mekuriaw B, Mehare T, Shumye S, Tsehay M. Magnitude and predictors of common mental disorder among people with HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:689. [PMID: 32410600 PMCID: PMC7345520 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-08800-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Common mental disorders are frequent psychiatric comorbid conditions among people with HIV/AIDS. The presence of such psychiatric disorders negatively affects the treatment adherence, viral load suppression, quality of life, treatment outcomes and functionality of people with HIV/AIDS. However, available studies in Ethiopia have a great variation and inconsistency of reported results have been observed regarding the magnitude and associated factors of common mental disorder. Thus, conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of existing literatures can have a paramount importance to show its summarized figure. METHODS Literatures search was performed using databases (PubMed/Medline, Science Direct and PsycINFO. Grey literatures were also searched from Google and Google Scholar. Data were extracted from primary studies using a data extraction format prepared in Microsoft Excel and exported to STATA-version 14 statistical software for analysis. The I2 test was used to assess the heterogeneity of primary articles. The result of the test showed that there was heterogeneity between primary studies. This leads us to execute a random effect meta-analysis to estimate the pooled prevalence of common mental disorder with corresponding 95% confidence interval. RESULTS A total of 13 primary studies comply with the inclusion criteria were included in this systematic review. The pooled prevalence of common mental disorder was found to be 28.83% (95% CI: 17.93, 39.73) among people with HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia. The highest prevalence of common mental disorder (35.20%) was observed among studies in which Kessler-10 was used as a screening tool. Single marital status (OR = 1.83; 95%CI: 1.03, 3.27), HIV/AIDS-related stigma (OR = 2.21; 95%CI: 1.68, 2.90) and current job unavailability (OR = 1.38; 95%CI: 1.01, 1.88) had statistically significant association with common mental disorder. CONCLUSION The result of this review showed that nearly one among three individuals with HIV/AIDS is suffering from common mental disorder in Ethiopia. This calls a need to integrate the mental health and psycho-social support into the HIV/AIDS care. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO- CRD42019132402. Registered on 05/08/2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zelalem Belayneh
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health and Medical Science, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Birhanie Mekuriaw
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health and Medical Science, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Tsegaye Mehare
- Bio-Medical Department, College of Health and Medical Science, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Seid Shumye
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health and Medical Science, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Mekonnen Tsehay
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
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