JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faces a severe mental health crisis, exacerbated by decades of conflict, poverty, and a fragile healthcare system. This challenge is directly relevant to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3): Good Health and Well-being, particularly Target 3.4, which calls for promoting mental health and well-being by 2030.

Objective:

The primary research question of this study examines the dual role of cultural belief systems in shaping mental well-being within the complex environment of the DRC, specifically investigating how these systems both contribute to and challenge mental well-being.

Methods:

This study employed a qualitative research design based on a systematic literature review and synthesis of existing research. Data were drawn from academic databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, Google Scholar), grey literature from NGOs (WHO, UNHCR), and peer-reviewed journals published between 2000 and 2024. A thematic analysis approach was used to analyze the data, involving familiarization, coding, and theme generation.

Results:

The findings reveal that cultural beliefs function as a double-edged sword. Positive contributions include traditional healing practices, strong community and family support networks, and religious faith (with approximately 80% of the population identifying as Christian), which provide crucial psychological resilience. Conversely, the widespread attribution of mental illness to supernatural causes fosters stigma and leads to harmful practices. Epidemiological data indicates high prevalence rates of mental health disorders in conflict-affected areas, with PTSD estimated between 17% and 50%, and depression rates ranging from 27.8% to 62% in Ebola-affected areas. The mental health system is severely under-resourced, with only 5% of the population having access to services and a workforce of 0.08 psychiatrists per 100,000 people.

Conclusions:

Cultural belief systems in the DRC have a profound and dual impact on mental well-being. Addressing the mental health crisis requires an integrated approach that leverages the protective aspects of culture while mitigating harmful practices. Developing culturally competent mental health services and fostering collaboration between traditional and modern healthcare providers are essential steps toward achieving SDG 3 in the DRC.