International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR)

Background: Internally displaced persons (IDPs) face multiple social and public health challenges across Sub-Saharan Africa. In Nigeria, research has largely focused on northern regions, with limited evidence from South-East Nigeria, particularly Enugu State. Displacement often leads to psychological distress due to trauma, loss of livelihoods, and disruption of social networks.
Objective: This study assessed the mental health needs of IDPs in selected camps in Enugu State, with a focus on psychological distress, access to mental health services, coping strategies, and gender differences in outcomes.
Method: Guided by Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, a descriptive cross-sectional design was used. Data were collected from 333 adults aged 18 years and above who had resided for at least six months in Ugwuaji (Nike), Ibagwa Aka, and Nkanu East camps. A structured questionnaire adapted from the WHO Assessment Instrument for Mental Health Systems (WHO-AIMS, 2015) was administered. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests at a 5% significance level. Results: Psychological distress was prevalent: 70.9% reported depressive symptoms, 66.1% experienced anxiety, and 52.3% reported trauma-related experiences. Only 27.1% had accessed formal mental health services. Barriers included cost, stigma, and limited availability of trained personnel. Informal coping strategies predominated, with religious/spiritual practices (71.2%) and family/peer support (54.0%) most common. Female IDPs were significantly more likely than males to report depressive symptoms (?² = 9.87, p = 0.002).
Conclusion: IDPs in Enugu State have substantial and largely unmet mental health needs. Limited access to formal services and reliance on informal coping strategies highlight the need for integrated, culturally sensitive, and gender-responsive interventions.
Unique Contribution: This study provides evidence on the mental health needs of IDPs in South-East Nigeria, a previously under-represented region, enhancing understanding of context-specific psychosocial needs. Key Recommendations: Integrate culturally sensitive, gender-responsive mental health support into humanitarian interventions, strengthen community-based networks, and address structural and socio-cultural barriers.