Challenges Encountered by Mental Health Workers in Rwanda; Current Situation and Future Needs

Abstract

The burden of mental health has become a great concern for public health as the diseases caused by mental health is ranking second worldwide. According to the HWO countries of Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) don’t allocate enough financial means to mental healthcare. The lack of will or interest in mental health in these countries causes different challenges in this sector. Rwanda as one of LMICs is not served on the challenges although it might have its particularities. This study aimed to explore the challenges encountered by Rwandan local mental health workers within and outside of their demanding work. Method: An interpretative qualitative mixed with quantitative design. The self-administrated questionnaire with open-ended questions, demographic data as well as qualitative data was systematically prepared, explained, and given to respondents. The questionnaire was completed by sixty mental health workers from various institutions with mental health in Rwanda. SPSS was used in quantitative data analysis while the main part of data used Thematic analysis for qualitative data analysis. Results: The main results immersed in themes that consist of the shortage of; salary, poverty of mental health seekers, culture, and beliefs toward mental health, training, and professional development of mental health works. The study concluded with a better understanding of challenges in mental health practice in Rwanda and the outcome could be used to decrease challenges for mental health professionals and sustain of the mental healthcare system in Rwanda.