Priorities for mental health research in the North-West Region of Cameroon in the context of sociopolitical crises

Background In the North-West Region of Cameroon (NWR) there is limited research available to shape mental health programmes and policy, and this gap has been compounded by the ongoing sociopolitical crisis. Developing a comprehensive research agenda is crucial to guiding mental health research and informing evidence-based interventions. Aims This paper presents a proposed research agenda for priority mental health, mental disorders and related issues in the NWR. It aims to enhance awareness about the need for research on mental health issues, including evidence about what is needed and effective. Method The study used a modified Delphi process with a multidisciplinary team of researchers and mental health practitioners. The study included a literature review, consultation with participants and reaching agreement on the most pressing research needs and approaches. Results Priority mental health research areas include (a) broad studies (e.g. situational analysis, prevalence studies); (b) mental health interventions; and (c) understanding mental health issues in depth, especially research involving persons with lived experience of mental health conditions and their families. Intervention studies are needed to better develop and evaluate treatments for trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder, and interventions that are grounded in local realities. Research exploring mental distress and poverty, and gendered analysis of mental health conditions, were also identified as key research priorities. Locally appropriate methods for conducting mental health research, reviewing of mental health-related research conducted at universities and supporting students in research were recognised as relevant to achieving these goals. Conclusions This work provides priorities to guide future mental health research in the NWR. This agenda has the potential to enhance understanding of local mental health challenges and to accelerate the development of contextually relevant, evidence-based solutions. Sustained commitment and multi-stakeholder partnerships will be crucial for translating this agenda into impactful research and practice.