Culture - a panacea to the high mental health treatment gap?

<p>Mental health problems in Kenya and Africa are often interpreted from either a religious or traditional perspective influenced by a person’s cultural perceptions. These perceptions impact not just the provision of care but also determines access. The World Health Organization (WHO) says a growing number of people with mental illness are not receiving mental health care and treatment. Estimates indicate an <a href="https://www.who.int/bulletin/volumes/89/3/10-082784/en/" target="_blank">85 percent</a> ‘treatment gap’ for low and middle-income countries. But a high number of people opt to seek help from either a religious leader or a traditional healer, depending on their cultural beliefs. Can culture help bridge the treatment gap?</p>