Mental Health Service Utilization Barriers Amongst HIV-Positive Patients in Ethiopia's Highlands: A Quantitative Survey Analysis

Mental health services in Ethiopia's highlands face significant barriers that hinder HIV-positive patients from accessing necessary care. A quantitative survey was conducted among a representative sample of HIV-positive patients (n = 300) in the Ethiopian highlands. Data were collected using structured questionnaires assessing patient demographics, service utilization history, and perceived barriers to care. Analysis revealed that socio-economic factors such as income level ($15-$20 per month) significantly influenced mental health service utilization (60% vs. 40%; p < 0.05). Socio-economic disparities are major barriers to accessing mental health services for HIV-positive patients in the Ethiopian highlands. Policy makers should prioritise interventions addressing socio-economic inequalities and improve healthcare access in rural areas of Ethiopia's highlands. HIV, Mental Health Services, Barriers, Utilization Patterns, Quantitative Survey