Background: The World Health Organization recommends person-centred and integrated care for mental health of people with Neglected Tropical Diseases. This study assesses the feasibility and acceptability of mental health care for people with NTDs, which integrated mental health care into primary health care services, in central Nigeria.
Methods: People affected by NTDs were screened for depression and anxiety, and those identified referred to the integrated service. Following their use of the service, Focus Group Discussions were held with service users and carers, and Key Informant Interviews with health service providers. Service providers were also interviewed on attitudes, before and after training with the WHO mhGAP Intervention Guide.
Results: In general service users reported satisfaction with the services, which they found to be dignified and accessible. They expressed concern about affordability, and waiting times. Providers also felt the service was acceptable. System gaps were identified, for example in health information systems and supervision. Poor political will threatened sustainability. CAMI scores did not change with mhGAP training.
Conclusion: Locally designed services that support mental health of people with NTDs can be integrated into primary care. Weak basic infrastructure and lack of investment are barriers to sustainability and potential effectiveness.
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