Publication Date

Fall 2024

Abstract

Defined as an individual’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being, mental health is essential for personal recovery and societal stability, especially in post-conflict settings. In regions like Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where communities have endured extreme political violence, the scars of historical trauma remain deep. While various literature exists on the psychological effects of political conflict, few studies have been conducted in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), and the impact of historical trauma on mental health outcomes in this region remains sparse. This research explores the psychological effects of historical trauma stemming from political conflict in Rwanda and the DRC. This study can be viewed through a holistic lens, considering the biological, psychological, and social factors of mental health outcomes. Based on personal interviews with psychiatrists, humanitarian aid workers, and academic researchers, contextualized through literature, it explores the impact of the Rwandan genocide and ongoing conflict in the DRC on mental health. This study highlights the impact of trauma in post-conflict communities, focusing on its role in manifestation of mental illnesses, cultural influences, and barriers to mental health care access, further shaping mental health outcomes. Holistic and culturally grounded interventions are identified as crucial for addressing the profound impacts of trauma. The research emphasizes the importance of raising awareness, closing gaps in support systems, and developing culturally relevant mental health strategies. Ultimately, it advocates for prioritizing mental health as essential for rebuilding communities, fostering sustainable community, and supporting the flourishing of communities in Rwanda and the DRC.

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences | Social and Behavioral Sciences

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