Enhancing mental health service use: insights from caregivers, providers, and managers in Ghana

Globally, there is a significant challenge in the acceptability and utilization of mental health services. This issue is particularly pronounced in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This study, grounded in the socioecological model, explores the recommendations and perspectives of family caregivers and service providers on improving mental health service utilization in the Bolgatanga Municipality of the Upper East Region of Ghana. A descriptive qualitative research design was employed to explore the views of 15 family caregivers, two service providers, and two mental health service managers on strategies to improve mental health service utilization. From February to March 2023, individual in-depth interviews were conducted, with data collection and analysis occurring concurrently. Participants recommended interventions at multiple levels. At the community level, they suggested increasing mental health awareness. At the organizational level, they emphasized the need to improve staff attitudes, address staffing shortages, and resolve transportation challenges. At the policy level, key suggestions included incorporating mental health services into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and increasing access to specialist mental health services. The study provides actionable recommendations to improve mental health service utilization. These include enhancing community awareness about mental health, increasing staffing levels, addressing negative attitudes among health professionals, ensuring the availability of specialist mental health services, and integrating mental healthcare into the NHIS. Implementing these recommendations could significantly enhance the uptake of mental health services in Ghana.