EXPLORING THE INFLUENCE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT SERVICES ON DEPRESSION REDUCTION OF PEOPLE WITH ALBINISM IN RWANDA
A CASE OF HEALTH ALERTS ORGANIZATION
Abstract
Individuals living with albinism face unique challenges, including living situation, socioeconomic status, and the effectiveness of the health education on their mental well-being. Understanding the interplay of these factors and their impact on depression is crucial for developing targeted intervention and support systems for this vulnerable population. This study explored the complex relationship between these variables to improve the mental health outcomes of individuals with albinism in Rwanda. This study was guided by three specific objectives: To determine the prevalence of depression among people living with albinism in Rwanda. To determine factors associated with depression among people living with albinism in Rwanda and to investigate the effectiveness of health educational sessions in increasing knowledge about depression among people living with albinism in Rwanda. The mixed methods study employed a quantitative cross-sectional design to assess the prevalence and factors associated with depression among people living with albinism in Rwanda from September 2023, utilizing a survey questionnaire that included independent variables such as gender, age, religion, place of residence, socio-economic category, parental situation (living with parents or orphans), and health risk factors, including suicidal ideation. In addition, qualitative data were collected through individual interviews to evaluate the effectiveness of health education interventions targeting depression within the study population. Logistic regression models were employed for the quantitative analyses to identify factors associated with depression. In the study involving 75 study population, all individuals were considered as respondents using census sampling technique and these were the people living with albinism beneficiaries of the Health Alerts Organization, a Rwandan non-profit organization. Most were young, female, and faced various life challenges. A significant majority experienced depression (69.33%), with occupation, literacy, socio-economic category, and facing challenges showing associations in bivariate analysis. Multivariate analysis revealed that being in socio-economic category III was protective against depression (OR 0.11) while facing challenges substantially increased the odds (OR 48.15). Our study revealed a high prevalence of depression among individuals, particularly those dealing with life challenges. Occupation, literacy, socio-economic status, and challenges were linked to depression in our analysis. Socio-economic category III seemed protective, while challenges significantly increased risk. These findings emphasize the necessity for tailored interventions and support for mental health disparities, especially among vulnerable populations facing adversity. This study holds a significant importance for associations supporting individuals with albinism, providing insights into their mental health issues and specific support needs. Counsellors benefit from a clearer understanding of the psychological challenges faced by this group. Findings can aid the Ministry of Health in planning and potential legislation to address mental health concerns among individuals with albinism, while Ministry of Local Government can use them to develop a national social protection policy and enhance public awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with albinism.
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