The Saudi National Mental Health Survey: Methodological and logistical challenges from the pilot study

Int J Methods Psychiatr Res. 2017 Sep;26(3):e1565. doi: 10.1002/mpr.1565. Epub 2017 May 12.

Abstract

Several challenges exist in carrying out nation-wide epidemiological surveys in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) due to the unique characteristics of its population. The objectives of this report are to review these challenges and the lessons learnt about best practices in meeting these challenges from the extensive piloting of the Saudi National Mental Health Survey (SNMHS), which is being carried out as part of the World Mental Health (WMH) Survey Initiative. We focus on challenges involving sample design, instrumentation, and data collection procedures. The SNMHS will ultimately provide crucial data for health policy-makers and mental health specialists in KSA.

Keywords: WHO-CIDI diagnostic interview; epidemiology; mental health; psychiatry; survey.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Health Surveys / methods*
  • Health Surveys / standards
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders / epidemiology*
  • Mental Health / statistics & numerical data*
  • Middle Aged
  • Saudi Arabia / epidemiology
  • Young Adult