Health-seeking behaviors and associated factors in individuals with substance use disorders at Chainama Hills College Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia

Introduction: Studies in mental health care for low-resource settings indicate that providing services at the primary care level would significantly improve the provision utilization of mental health services. Challenges related to inadequate funding were noted as significant barriers to service provision, with the contribution of low knowledge of mental health conditions and stigma in the community. Objective: This study aimed to assess and explore health-seeking behaviors and their associated factor at Chainama Hills College Hospital (CHCH), Lusaka, Zambia. The study was conducted at CHCH on clients and/or their caregivers receiving and accessing in- and outpatient (OPD) alcohol and drug detoxification and rehabilitation services at CHCH. 79 participants took part in the study taking into consideration all ethical issues. Methodology: Data was collected using the structured questionnaire administered to 79 participants and primary caregivers. Qualitative data was collected using in-depth interviews captured using the digital recorder. The quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS software and the digitally recorded responses for qualitative data were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Factors influencing health-seeking behavior were related to health systems, socio-cultural, socioeconomic, and individual factors. The main system issues were related to the availability and attitudes of staff and the shortage of supplies and medicines. Conclusion: The engagement of community health workers and increasing efforts to sensitize the community about mental health would prove beneficial. Strengthening the community health systems for mental health could improve access and increase the utilization of services.