Publication:

Barriers, enablers and perceived benefits of mental health services among workers in primary healthcare facilities in Rivers State: a qualitative approach

For effective provision of mental healthcare services (MHS), resource availability is key. This study explored the enablers and barriers affecting the provision of primary MHS in primary healthcare (PHC) facilities in Rivers State. A qualitative study was conducted among 12 PHC workers in Rivers State, Nigeria, using topic-guided in-depth and key informant interviews. Ethical considerations were ensured and thematic content analysis was used to analyze and code data into subthemes. Enabling factors included the availability of workers, and having workers who were willing to provide these services. Barriers included unavailability of trained staff, poor mental health awareness, unavailability of medications. The provision of MHS faces barriers that can potentially limit the quality and effectiveness of services provided at the PHC level. Establishing and implementing a strategic framework to address the identified challenges and improving overall government support towards MHS provision were recommended.