An Action Research Study: Assessing the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Needs of Survivors of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence in Northern Nigeria

This action research study, conducted from 2023 to 2025, investigated the mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) needs of survivors of conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) in Northern Nigeria. The protracted insurgency has caused widespread CRSV, yet a critical gap persists in contextually relevant, survivor-centred MHPSS. Employing a cyclical, participatory methodology, the research engaged 42 female survivors across three local government areas in Borno State via in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. To ensure rigour and co-design, parallel participatory workshops were conducted with 28 key stakeholders, including local healthcare providers, community leaders, and non-governmental organisation representatives, to collaboratively analyse data and formulate interventions.

Findings revealed a complex syndemic of trauma, manifesting as severe post-traumatic stress, depression, and profound social stigmatisation, exacerbated by the erosion of traditional support structures. Survivors prioritised integrated services combining clinical mental healthcare with practical livelihood support and community-based reconciliation initiatives. The iterative research cycles directly informed the pilot implementation of a culturally adapted, multi-component MHPSS framework within two existing primary healthcare centres. This study underscores the imperative for African public health systems to develop integrated, community-embedded MHPSS models that address both the clinical and social determinants of recovery. It argues for a move beyond a purely biomedical approach to foster sustainable healing and social reintegration for CRSV survivors.