Mental health and substance abuse

Mental Health is one of the most disadvantaged health programs in Ethiopia, both in terms of facilities and trained manpower. The average prevalence of mental disorders in Ethiopia is 15% for adults and 11% for children. The psychiatrist-to-population ratio for Ethiopia is 1:6 million. The only institutions that provide psychiatric services by specialist doctors are found in Addis Ababa; actually inpatient service is provided only at two hospitals. During the last decade, more than 150 psychiatrist nurses have been trained through WHO assistance. The deployment of these nurses in the various health facilities of the regions where they can diagnose, treat, and refer mental health patients has allowed the extension of mental health service to the periphery. It has also allowed the integration of psychiatric care in the general health system. Through WHO fellowship programs, postgraduate studies abroad are also possible, including the fellowship for two physicians and two senior nurses who are currently on training in South Africa. In addition to the provision of support of the ongoing psychiatrist nurses training, WHO support is provided for the establishment of two units (in the two psychiatrist hospitals) for treatment and rehabilitation of patients with problems of drug/ substance abuse. It is very encouraging that psychiatry postgraduate training for doctors has begun in 2003 in Ethiopia.

Advocacy and sensitisation is an essential strategy for mental health since stigma is a serious problem surrounding the problem that hinders early recognition and successful treatment. Activities in this field have been carried out in line with WHO's recommendation. At the celebration of the World Health Day 2001, a series of advocacy events took place including visits to the main mental health hospital, the rehabilitation centre on the outskirts of Addis Ababa, holding a rally with a message on the problems of Drug Substance Abuse and with a large symposium attended by a multi-sectoral group including families of patients with mental health disorders. Similar events were organized in October 2003 at the commemoration of the World Mental Health Day, through WHO's financial support.