Community health workers' knowledge and attitude towards mental health and illness in India: A review

Abstract

Background: Community Health Workers (CHWs) play a crucial role in the Indian healthcare system, particularly in bridging gaps between healthcare facilities and underserved populations. Their knowledge and attitudes towards mental health and illness significantly influence the effectiveness of mental health interventions at the community level. Objective: This systematic review aims to evaluate the existing literature on the knowledge and attitudes of CHWs towards mental health and illness in India, identifying gaps and suggesting areas for improvement. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in databases including PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO for studies published between January 2010 and January 2021. Inclusion criteria encompassed quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies focusing on CHWs' knowledge and attitudes towards mental health in the Indian context. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed