Abstract
IntroductionMental health disorders constitute 13% of global disease burden, the impacts of which are disproportionality felt in sub-Saharan Africa. Equatorial Guinea, located in Central-West Africa, has the highest per-capita investment in healthcare on the African continent, but only two studies have discussed mental health issues in the country and none of have examined the perspective of professionals working in the field. The purpose of this study was to gain a preliminary understanding of Equatoguinean health care professionals' perspectives on the mental health care system.MethodsNine adult participants (directors or program managers) were interviewed in July 2013 in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea from government agencies, aid organizations, hospitals, and pharmacies. Interviews were designed to collect broad information about the mental healthcare system in Equatorial Guinea including the professionals' perspectives and access to resources. This research was reviewed and approved by an ethical oversight committee.ResultsAll individuals interviewed indicated that the mental health system does not currently meet the needs of the community. Professionals cited infrastructural capacity, stigmatization, and a lack of other resources (training programs, knowledgeable staff, medications, data) as key factors that limit the effectiveness of mental healthcare.ConclusionThis study provides a preliminary understanding of the existing mental health care needs in the country, highlighting opportunities for enhanced healthcare services.
Highlights
Mental health disorders constitute 13% of global disease burden, the impacts of which are disproportionality felt in sub-Saharan Africa
If the estimates of mental health prevalence in Equatorial Guinea [4] and in Africa as a whole [21] are true, thousands of individuals are currently suffering from a mental illness with limited access to treatment options
There was an acceptance that the current mental health system in Equatorial Guinea does not adequately address the needs of communities
Summary
Mental health disorders constitute 13% of global disease burden, the impacts of which are disproportionality felt in sub-Saharan Africa. Equatorial Guinea, located in Central-West Africa, has the highest per-capita investment in healthcare on the African continent, but only two studies have discussed mental health issues in the country and none of have examined the perspective of professionals working in the field. The purpose of this study was to gain a preliminary understanding of Equatoguinean health care professionals' perspectives on the mental health care system. Interviews were designed to collect broad information about the mental healthcare system in Equatorial Guinea including the professionals' perspectives and access to resources. Conclusion: This study provides a preliminary understanding of the existing mental health care needs in the country, highlighting opportunities for enhanced healthcare services. Global spending on mental health is less than US$2 per person, per year and many governments spend less than 1% of the total health expenditure on mental health, leaving a funding and treatment gap [6]; in low-income and highincome countries, 76-85% and 35-50% people, respectively, receive no treatment for their disorder [ 5]
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