Challenges of Research in Rural Mental Health in Sri Lanka

Abstract

This chapter discusses the challenges of conducting mental health research in rural Sri Lanka. The majority of the Sri Lankan population (77.4%) live rurally and the demand for mental health service remains high. Mental health service development in two districts, the Ampara District in the Eastern Province and Monaragala district from the Uva province of Sri Lanka, is detailed to describe the challenges faced by the mental health workforce. Real life experiences of two consultant psychiatrists who were leading these service development efforts bear witness to the deterrents and challenges in conducting mental health research. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)