Current state of the literature on mental health in Liberia: A systematic review

Abstract

Background: The Republic of Liberia recently experienced several events that resulted in wide-ranging societal impacts, including long-term civil war and an outbreak of Ebola. These types of events are linked to higher prevalence of mental disorders and psychosocial distress. As a result, it is likely that there is an increased prevalence of mental health disorders in the population.Aim: To assess and review the recent mental health literature in order to provide insight into existing mental health needs and effective or recommended interventions in post-conflict Liberia.Setting: Articles included in this study enrolled Liberians living in Liberia.Methods: A search of four databases was conducted for studies of any type that assessed mental health in Liberia between 01 January 2003 and 27 March 2019. After reviewing 363 articles, 21 articles were included in the final analysis. Articles were coded to identify common themes and needs.Results: The majority of studies used qualitative designs and were conducted in Monrovia, the capital city of Liberia. Common topics included adolescent mental health, intervention and assessment and post-conflict impacts. One article focused on mental health impacts after recovery from Ebola.Conclusion: Overall, there is a dearth of mental health literature that focuses on Liberia. This suggests ample opportunity for researchers to investigate mental health needs amongst the Liberian population and effective psychiatric interventions. Existing recommendations often focus on addressing adolescent health needs, including substance use practices. Opportunities for future research particularly related to needs of adult populations and to mental health impacts of Ebola, abound.

Sexual risk behaviour among school-going adolescents in Sierra Leone and Liberia: a secondary analysis of the 2017 Global school-based student health surveys

“…In contrast to a Mozambican study [ 36 ] but consistent with a Ghanaian study [ 11 ] and in the Caribbean as well as Asian pacific island countries [ 16 , 40 , 41 ], psychological distress was associated with sexual risk behaviours such as ever had sex, early sexual debut and non-condom use. High mental health burden has been reported among adolescents in Sierra Leone and Liberia, and such burden is linked to exposure to trauma during the civil war and Ebola outbreak in these two countries [ 26 , 30 ]. Psychological distress contributes to adolescents’ vulnerability, leading to risky sexual behaviour, violence, and substance abuse, partly caused by economic hardship and parental loss [ 49 ].…”

“…Both countries' populations have experienced civil war and, most recently, an Ebola disease outbreak leading to profound economic hardship and psychopathologies such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, psychosis, and family disruption [ 20 , 26 – 28 ]. These mental health morbidities and family disruption were more profound among adolescents and young people, making them vulnerable to indulging in at-risk sexual behaviours such as early sexual debut, having multiple sexual partners, and not using condoms [ 10 , 29 , 30 ]. Also, the adolescent birth rate in these countries is reported to be high and above the average in sub-Saharan Africa [ 31 ].…”

How Depression and Anxiety Impact Adherence to COVID-19 Prevention Practices in Urban Liberia

“…8 The mental health needs of the country are understudied, particularly with regard to the general adult population. 9…”

“…8 The mental health needs of the country are understudied, particularly with regard to the general adult population. 9 Liberia also has had few COVID-19 cases and deaths relative to much of the world. As of October 2023, 7930 people have been diagnosed with COVID-19, and 294 people have died.…”