CHW Central

A global resource for and about Community Health Workers

Mental health

Perceptions around occupational mental well-being of community health workers and an intervention package for its promotion: A mixed-methods study in rural Chiapas, Mexico

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Community health workers (CHWs) in rural Mexico face mental health challenges due to difficult working conditions. In response, an NGO introduced a program in 2021 to support CHW mental well-being. A study involving 52 CHWs found their sense of community impact and peer connections boosted well-being, while work-life balance and uneven access to interventions posed challenges. … [Read more...] about Perceptions around occupational mental well-being of community health workers and an intervention package for its promotion: A mixed-methods study in rural Chiapas, Mexico

Witnessing for Black mental health: Formative steps for designing a community-based mental health education intervention

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After a racially motivated mass shooting in Buffalo, New York, a partnership developed culturally tailored mental health programs for the local Black community. Researchers interviewed community health workers and focus groups of community members to identify barriers like stigma, cost, and poverty, and risks such as lack of social support. Participants showed growing openness … [Read more...] about Witnessing for Black mental health: Formative steps for designing a community-based mental health education intervention

Community mental health doulas (CMHD): a novel approach to addressing mental health challenges in America

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This study explores the Community Mental Health Doulas (CMHD) model, a new approach to help address mental health care gaps by offering culturally sensitive, community-based support. The model could improve care continuity, reduce stigma, and boost community involvement. Key considerations include finding sustainable funding, collaborating with existing providers, and using … [Read more...] about Community mental health doulas (CMHD): a novel approach to addressing mental health challenges in America

Advancing community health worker models to support youth and families’ mental health

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Community health workers (CHWs) are effective in delivering evidence-based treatments (EBTs), but their role in the U.S. mental health system is still limited. This article offers recommendations to better integrate CHWs into mental health care, especially for youth, by improving practices, research, and policies to ensure long-term success. … [Read more...] about Advancing community health worker models to support youth and families’ mental health

“Helping Mentally Ill, a Reward Both in this Life and After”: A Qualitative Study Among Community Health Professionals in Somaliland

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This study explored the experiences of community mental health workers, predominantly female, nurses, and doctors providing mental health services in Borama, Somaliland. Through focus group discussions, they identified challenges such as stigma, lack of resources, and the dominance of traditional healers. Despite obstacles, they found their work rewarding and crucial in … [Read more...] about “Helping Mentally Ill, a Reward Both in this Life and After”: A Qualitative Study Among Community Health Professionals in Somaliland