Poverty and acceptability of orthodox psychiatric treatment in Cross River State, Nigeria.
Keywords:
poverty, acceptability, orthodox, psychiatric and treatmentAbstract
Poverty remains one of the most significant barriers to accessing quality mental health care, particularly in developing areas like Cross River State, Nigeria. The World Bank reports that over 700 million people, or about 9% of the global population, still live in extreme poverty surviving on less than $2.15 per day. Therefore, this study explores how poverty shapes people's willingness especially in rural areas to accept and utilize orthodox psychiatric treatment in the State. Despite the growing burden of mental health disorders, many individuals and families continue to prioritize immediate survival needs over seeking psychiatric care, often turning instead to traditional healing practices that are perceived as more affordable or culturally accustomed. Based on the secondary data, the study reveals a deep-seated mistrust of orthodox treatment, fueled by economic hardship, limited awareness, and entrenched stigma surrounding mental illness especially as it is always linked to spirituality. In conclusion, addressing poverty is not just an economic imperative it is a necessary step toward improving the acceptability and effectiveness of orthodox psychiatric treatment in Cross River State. Hence, the paper recommends that, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), should provide funding for psychiatric care, sponsor transportation to mental health centers, and run mental health education programs. Mental health professionals should engage in awareness campaigns to destigmatize psychiatric treatment among the rural poor populations.Downloads
References
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