Bipolar disorder in African cultural settings: A rapid systematic review

35^th Euro Congress on Psychiatrists and Psychologists

June 16-17, 2025 Webinar

C.Nwankwo Soriano

Kingâ??s College London, London, United Kingdom

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: Clinical Neurology & Neurosurgery

Abstract :

Background/introduction: Bipolar disorder is a chronic mood disorder that is a significant contributor to the global burden of mental health disorders, where mania is known to be significantly disruptive in personal life. It is considered highly treatable with medication and tailored psychotherapies. However, there is particular concern across Africa regarding outcomes, and minimal understanding regarding how cultural factors impact the progression of the disorder. Aim(s)/objectives: To explore and identify the main cultural factors that influence the understanding, recognition and treatment of bipolar disorder across African cultural settings. Methods: A rapid systematic review was used to search two databases: PubMed and PsycInfo with specified inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results were then analysed following a narrative synthesis structure to identify key cultural factors across African cultural settings and their associated impact. Results: Cultural factors in African cultural settings influence bipolar disorder in multiple aspects: understanding of the condition, diagnosis and treatment. The top cultural factors are lack of awareness, beliefs and stigma, increased barriers to treatment and lack of treatment options. Discussion/conclusion: Results showed that cultural factors play a significant role in the outcomes for individuals with bipolar disorder across Africa, where reduced knowledge and negative stigma about the condition makes it more difficult to recognise and diagnose individuals accurately. This may intertwine with cultural beliefs, and lead to usage of traditional healers rather than clinical services, causing reduced treatment rates. Further influenced by difficulty accessing services and a lack of psychotherapies. Therefore, culturally adapted interventions, such as psychoeducation, could be considered. Keywords : Bipolar disorder; Africa; cultural factors; cultural beliefs; culturally adapted interventions

Biography :

Chidimma Nwankwo Soriano is a fourth-year medical student, currently studying at King’s College London, United Kingdom. Pursuing an interest in psychiatry and global health, and planning to do a psychiatry related Master’s during intercalation to increase research experience.