Spatial modeling of mental health on outpatient morbidity in Kenya
Journal:
arXiv
Published Date:
Jan 21, 2025
Abstract
A mental health disorder is a clinically significant impairment in a persons
intellect, emotional control, or behavior. Mental disorders and outpatient
morbidity are a challenge to public health in Kenya. The spatial distribution
and study of factors associated with these conditions remain limited. The study
aimed to conduct spatial modeling of mental health on outpatient mobility in
Kenya. This project used spatial modeling to explore the relationship between
infectious diseases and mental disorders. The results showed that mental health
issues were not distributed uniformly, with higher frequency found in Western
and Nairobi regions. Possible connections between HIV, TB, and STIs with mental
health have been suggested by the substantial correlation found between
infectious diseases and mental health issues. The spatial model demonstrated
excellent validity and accuracy, providing policymakers with a useful tool to
better allocate resources and enhance mental health treatments, especially in
high-risk locations. In conclusion, the research improved knowledge of the
spatial patterns of mental health disorders and guides intervention tactics and
healthcare policies in Kenya and other comparable settings. Geographically
tailored mental health intervention programs should be developed and
implemented in accordance with the high-prevalence areas.
