Perspectives on Mental Health Problems, Mental Healthcare, and Quality of Life for People Living in Areas of Crisis.

Abstract

This study aims to explore mental health (e.g. depression and PTSD) as well as the quality of life for people living in or coming from areas of crisis. The study also linked these mental health variables and quality of life (QoL) with access to mental healthcare; as well as QoL with receiving mental healthcare. The research also aims qualitatively to discover healthcare workers’ perspective about access to mental healthcare, treatment methods, barriers to seeking therapy and number of beneficiaries in those countries. Studies have shown that individuals in Yemen, Sudan, and Syria have been facing recurrent exposure to stress, loss, and trauma, resulting in severe mental health difficulties and reduction in QoL. Common mental disorders prevalent among those exposed to war and conflict include PTSD and depression. Limited access to mental healthcare exacerbates the situation, affecting people’s mental health and QoL. The study employed a mixed methods approach. PCL-5, PHQ-9, and WHOQOL-BREF questionnaires are used for PTSD, depression, and quality of life among 118 Syrian, Yemen, and Sudan adults. Semi structured interviews were conducted with 3 healthcare workers to explore access to mental healthcare, treatment methods, and number of beneficiaries. Over 52.5% exhibited high PTSD risk, and 55% showed moderate to severe depression symptoms. More than half lacked mental healthcare access, and most hadn't received prior care. There were significant differences in mental health disorders and QoL with the accessibility to mental healthcare. There was no significant difference in QoL between those who received mental healthcare and those who did not. Thematic analysis identified two master themes: access to mental healthcare and barriers to seeking therapy.