Mental health knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and stigma in a rural Sudanese community

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to assess knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding mental health disorders among residents of Safia-Katfia village, Al-Hasahisa Locality, Gezira State, Sudan. Design/methodology/approach A descriptive cross-sectional community-based survey was conducted in February 2023 among 218 randomly selected adults using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential analyses were used to examine associations between sociodemographic factors and mental health awareness. Findings Misconceptions were common. Most participants believed that mental disorders are characterised by intense depression (94.4%), that affected individuals have impaired decision-making capacity (78.4%), and that mental illness is caused by supernatural forces (70.2%) or weak willpower (67.0%). More than half (57.7%) believed that mental disorders cannot be prevented. Higher educational level was associated with better knowledge and more favourable attitudes, whereas older age was associated with lower knowledge scores. Despite persistent stigma, attitudes towards seeking mental health care were generally supportive. Research limitations/implications As a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in a single community, the design provides associations rather than causal relationships, and the findings have limited generalisability. Further studies in broader Sudanese populations are needed. Practical implications Community-based, culturally sensitive awareness programmes are needed to improve mental health literacy and reduce stigma. Social implications Addressing cultural misconceptions may promote earlier help-seeking, improve community acceptance and strengthen engagement with mental health services. Originality/value This study provides community-level evidence on mental health literacy and stigma in a rural Sudanese setting.