A Mixed-Methods Research Protocol: Assessing Drought-Related Mental Health and Community Resilience in Côte d'Ivoire (2021–2026)

Climate change-induced drought poses a significant threat to population health in Africa, with its mental health impacts remaining critically understudied in West Africa. This protocol outlines a rigorous mixed-methods study to assess the effects of severe drought periods between 2021 and 2026 on mental health and community resilience in the Savanes and Zanzan districts of Côte d’Ivoire. Its primary objective is to quantify the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder whilst qualitatively exploring local resilience strategies. A concurrent triangulation design will strengthen validity through data integration. Quantitatively, a cross-sectional household survey (n=800) will employ validated tools, including the PHQ-9 and GAD-7. Qualitatively, focus group discussions and key informant interviews with community elders, healthcare workers, and agricultural advisors will investigate adaptive coping mechanisms and perceived support structures. Data collection is scheduled for the third quarter of 2025, following major drought seasons, to capture proximate impacts. Anticipated findings will delineate the mental health burden and elucidate indigenous, community-led resilience practices. The study’s significance lies in generating the first robust, context-specific evidence from Côte d’Ivoire, directly informing the integration of mental health support into national climate adaptation and public health policies. This protocol underscores the imperative for African-led research to shape responsive health systems addressing the psychosocial dimensions of the climate crisis.