Integrating Mental Health Services Into Primary Health Care in Nigeria: A Mixed Method Study Exploring the Roles of Family Physicians in Closing the Glaring Gap

Background: The need to integrate mental health services into primary healthcare service provision in Nigeria is now more urgent than previously considering the huge and increasing gap in access to mental care at the community level. This study therefore, assessed the critical roles and responsibilities of family physicians in facilitating the successful integration of Mental Health Services (MHS) into primary healthcare settings in Nigeria, with the goal of improving health outcomes, improving patient-centered care, and promoting a more efficient and effective healthcare system. Methods: A mixed method research design was used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data from Nigerian primary care physicians (PCPs) across the six (6) geo-political zones of the country. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to elicit their socio-demographic information, their view of the current state of MHS, factors affecting MHS integration into PHC, while key-informant interview guide was used to explore their opinions on how MHS can be enhanced in the country and how MH care can be integrated into primary health care in Nigeria. Results: The most common role identified by respondents is serving as a link between primary care and mental health specialists (29.7%), followed by being managers of healthcare resources (20.3%) and researchers (19.4%). The study revealed that family physicians have diverse roles in providing comprehensive and coordinated mental health care. Family physicians can use their unique position to facilitate early diagnosis, prompt intervention, provide ongoing support, and foster a collaborative care approach that addresses the complex needs of patients with mental health conditions, ultimately improving overall health outcomes and overall well-being. Conclusion: Family Physicians have important roles to play in bridging the gap between primary healthcare and mental healthcare, particularly in low and middle-income countries like Nigeria. it is recommended that family physicians receive targeted training in mental health care, have access to updated clinical guidelines, and be supported by robust referral systems to ensure seamless collaboration with mental health specialists.