Jidong_2021_Nigerian_cultural-beliefs_Accepted Manuscript.pdf (260.29 kB)
Nigerian cultural beliefs about mental health conditions and traditional healing: a qualitative study
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-10, 01:14 authored by Dung Ezekiel Jidong, Di Bailey, Tholene Sodi, Linda Gibson, Natewinde Sawadogo, Deborah Ikhile, David Musoke, Munyaradzi Madhombiro, Marcellus MbahPurpose This study aims to explore how cultural beliefs and traditions are integral to understanding indigenous mental health conditions (MHCs) and traditional healing (TH). However, Nigerian cultural beliefs about MHCs and TH are under-researched. Design/methodology/approach This study adopted a qualitative design using critical realist and social constructionist perspectives to explore Nigerian mental health-care practitioners (MHCPs) and lay participants’ (LPs) views regarding MHCs and TH. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used to select 53 participants (MHCPs = 26; LPs = 27; male = 32; female = 21) in four Nigerian cities (Ado-Ekiti, Enugu, Jos and Zaria). Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analysed through thematic analyses. Findings The data sets revealed three overarching themes, namely, existing cultural beliefs about MHCs as spiritual curse; description of TH as the first treatment modality for MHCs; and perceived stigma associated with MHCs and help-seeking behaviours. Originality/value A study on Nigerian cultural beliefs and TH contributes meaningfully to mental health systems. Future research and policy initiatives could explore ways of optimising TH practices and community awareness programmes to increase access to mental health care in Nigeria.
History
Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Accepted version
Journal
Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and PracticeISSN
1755-6228Publisher
EmeraldExternal DOI
Issue
4Volume
16Page range
285-299Department affiliated with
- Primary Care and Public Health Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2021-10-04First Open Access (FOA) Date
2021-10-04First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2021-10-01Usage metrics
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