A recent study by Oladele, et al. (2024) titled “A Literature Review of Health and Mental Well-being Indicators and Its Assessment in Sub-Saharan Africa (2014–2022)” published in the Journal of Research and Health, shows that mental health research in South Africa began earlier and is more prevalent in academic settings, while in Nigeria, it involves various stakeholders.
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Mental health research in South Africa is more academic, while in Nigeria, it involves diverse stakeholders. – Oladele, et al. 2024
A recent literature review titled “A Literature Review of Health and Mental Well-being Indicators and Its Assessment in Sub-Saharan Africa (2014–2022)” offers valuable insights into the factors influencing health and mental well-being (MWB) in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study underscores the necessity for a thorough evaluation to enhance both health and MWB across the region. The review delves into various factors shaping health and MWB in Sub-Saharan Africa. It highlights the importance of a detailed assessment to address the unique challenges faced by the population in this region. The study aims to provide a clearer understanding of these challenges to improve overall health and well-being.
How the Study was Conducted
The study conducted a literature review using the POWER framework (planning, operationalizing, writing, embedding, and reflecting). This framework guided the creation and assessment of the literature review paper. The Web of Science (WoS) database was the primary source, complemented by random Google-led searches. The search included keywords related to mental well-being (MWB), focusing on literature published between 2014 and 2022 in South Africa and Nigeria. The study involved three phases: Initialization (planning and operationalizing), impression (writing), and impact (reflection and evaluation).
What the Authors Found
The authors found that the key indicators of mental health and well-being include the ability to realize potential, cope with normal stresses, work productively, and engage meaningfully in the community. Mental health research in South Africa began earlier and is more prevalent in academic settings, while in Nigeria, it involves various stakeholders.
Why is this Important?
Contextual Relevance: It addresses the unique health and mental well-being challenges faced by populations in Sub-Saharan Africa, which are often different from those in other regions.
Cultural Appropriateness: By highlighting the need for culturally adaptive assessment tools, the study ensures that mental health evaluations are more accurate and relevant to the local context.
Holistic Health: Emphasizing both objective and subjective well-being provides a more comprehensive understanding of mental health, which is crucial for effective health promotion and illness prevention.
Policy and Practice: The findings can inform policymakers and healthcare providers, helping them develop better strategies and interventions tailored to the specific needs of Sub-Saharan African communities.
What the Authors Recommend
- The authors advocate developing and using mental well-being assessment tools that are culturally appropriate for Sub-Saharan Africa to ensure accurate and relevant evaluations.
- The authors emphasize adopting a holistic approach to mental health that includes both objective and subjective well-being indicators.
- Encourage collaboration across various disciplines to create comprehensive strategies for health promotion and illness prevention.
- Integrate mental well-being indicators into public health policies to effectively address the specific needs of sub-Saharan African populations.
- Involve local communities in the development and implementation of mental health initiatives to ensure they are contextually relevant and sustainable.
In conclusion, the literature review by Oladele et al. (2024) offers invaluable insights into the unique challenges and factors influencing mental health and well-being in Sub-Saharan Africa. By emphasizing the importance of culturally appropriate assessment tools and a holistic approach to mental wellness, this study provides a critical foundation for developing effective health promotion and illness prevention strategies. The recommendations call for collaborative efforts across disciplines and the integration of mental well-being indicators into public health policies, ensuring that initiatives are contextually relevant and sustainable. This comprehensive evaluation aims to improve the overall health and well-being of populations in the region, paving the way for a brighter, healthier future.
The African Research (AR) Index is a comprehensive scholarly directory and database focused explicitly on journal publishers that publish and disseminate African research.
