A mental health research study is underway in the rural communities of Apumiri, Mgbarakuma, and Nsukwe within Ubakala, Umuahia, and Abia State. The BanStopPrevent mental health advocacy is a project of Walk347, United Kingdom, in conjunction with NAS Magna Carta (the Hertfordshire/Bedfordshire and Home Counties chapter of the National Association of Seadogs, an organisation in Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council since 2021).
This BanStopPrevent mental health advocacy study explores local perceptions of mental health and attitudes towards harmful practices while identifying factors that promote or hinder change.
As part of this year’s World Mental Health Day, we look forward to sharing the preliminary findings of this pilot study.
Key Areas of Focus
The study examines five critical areas essential to understanding and improving mental healthcare in these communities:
- Perception of Mental Health and Treatment
We explore how mental health is perceived, including beliefs about its causes and current treatments. This helps highlight the cultural influences shaping mental health interventions. - Openness to Change
This objective assesses how receptive the community is to alternative treatments, particularly regarding harmful practices like chaining. We examine factors such as education, trust, and efficacy that may encourage openness to change. - Identifying Barriers to Change
The study investigates obstacles preventing change, including resource limitations, cultural beliefs, and distrust of modern medicine. Understanding these barriers is key to designing effective advocacy strategies. - Potential for Advocacy and Support
The study aims to promote better mental health practices by identifying what forms of advocacy, education, and support resonate with the community and traditional healers. - Role of Traditional Leaders and Healers
The research examines the influence of traditional healers and community leaders, whose involvement is crucial in driving sustainable change towards safer mental health treatments.
Research Methods and Expected Outcomes
Data is being collected through surveys and interviews using both qualitative and quantitative methods. The findings will form the basis of a comprehensive report, including policy recommendations for improving mental healthcare in the region, with a focus on advocacy, education, and support strategies.
Unveiling Preliminary Findings
In October 2024, following World Mental Health Day, we will present the preliminary findings at an event featuring discussions with mental health professionals and community leaders. The event aims to raise awareness, foster dialogue, and advocate for ending harmful practices in mental health treatment.
Shaping the Future of Mental Healthcare
This pilot study will comprehensively report mental health practices in traditional healing centres within Apumiri, Mgbarakuma, and Nsukwe. While the findings reflect local practices, they offer valuable insights that could inform future studies and broader initiatives across Nigeria. The report will provide policy recommendations and a framework for improving mental healthcare, with a focus on advocacy and sustainable change.
For more information, visit www.walk347.com or www.nas-int.org
Chukwudi Onwudinanti
Is the lead for the BanStopPrevent Advocacy project team based in Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
