Understanding Barriers to Accessing Mental Health Services in Zimbabwe: A Qualitative Study at Parirenyatwa Psychiatric Hospital Annexe

Abstract

Access to mental health services remains a major public health challenge in Zimbabwe despite the increasing burden of mental health disorders. This study explores barriers to accessing mental health services from the perspectives of patients and healthcare providers at Parirenyatwa Psychiatric Hospital Annexe in Harare, Zimbabwe. A qualitative case study, employing a phenomenological approach, was adopted to understand participants' lived experiences. Purposive sampling was used to recruit ten (10) participants comprising five (5) mental health patients and five (5) healthcare providers. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews and key informant interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that stigma and discrimination are the most significant barriers to accessing mental health services, discouraging individuals from seeking timely professional care. Financial constraints, including the high cost of transportation, consultation and medication, further limited service utilisation. Participants also highlighted inadequate mental health awareness, misconceptions regarding mental illness and the continued influence of cultural and traditional beliefs as major obstacles to accessing treatment. Healthcare providers reported systemic challenges, including shortages of trained mental health professionals, inadequate infrastructure and resources and weaknesses in mental health policy implementation, all of which compromised service delivery. Participants recommended increased investment in mental health services, strengthened public awareness campaigns, policy reforms, workforce development and greater integration of mental health into primary healthcare. The study concludes that improving access to mental health services in Zimbabwe requires coordinated interventions that address structural, socioeconomic and sociocultural barriers, while strengthening the capacity of the healthcare system. The findings provide evidence to inform mental health policy, social work practice and future interventions aimed at improving equitable access to quality mental healthcare in Zimbabwe.