Mental Health Literacy and Mental Health Promotion With Urban Refugee Youth in Kampala, Uganda

Tushirikiane4MH: Mental Health Literacy and Mental Health Promotion With Urban Refugee Youth in Kampala, Uganda

From our previous studies, we know that urban refugee youth commonly report depressive symptoms. The primary aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness of youth-tailored interventions to improve mental health literacy and reduce mental health stigma among urban refugee youth in Kampala, Uganda. There will be two intervention arms and one control arm. The first intervention arm will involve a VR experience that focuses on mental health literacy and coping strategies, as well as SMS check-ins from peer navigators (PN) trained in psychological first aid. The second intervention arm will involve an adapted version of the WHO's Group Problem Management Plus. The primary outcomes are to a) increase mental health literacy (knowledge and understanding of mental health generally and of specific disorders; b) increase attitudes towards mental health help-seeking, c) reduce depression, d) increase adaptive coping strategies; e) reduce mental health stigma, f) improve mental wellbeing, and g) increase level of functioning. Participants will complete a pre- and post-intervention survey as well as a follow-up survey.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. living in one of the 5 informal settlements in Kampala we already work with (Nsambya, Katwe, Rubaga, Kabalagala, Kansanga);
2. self identify as a woman or man (transgender inclusive);
3. identify as a refugee/displaced person/having refugee parents;
4. aged 16-25;
5. own a mobile phone;
6. speak Swahili, Luganda, Kirundi, Kinyarwanda, French or English and can provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

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