Could Clergy serve as a Resource in the Management Alcohol Use Disorders? A Cross-sectional and Exploratory Study

Abstract

Background: In Nigeria, heavy alcohol consumption as well as alcohol related problems are rapidly increasing. Individuals with substance related problems do not present to medical services early and may seek alternative sources of care such as the clergy. The clergy may be uniquely positioned as an easily accessible support for individuals with alcohol use disorders. We explored clergy attitudes towards and knowledge of alcohol use disorders as well as their readiness to collaborate with mental health professionals.
Method: A cross sect ional descriptive study of a non-probability sample Christian and Muslim clerics in Benin City, Nigeria using an adapted vignette based (Clergy Perception of Mental Illness) selfadministered questionnaire.
Results: Just over half (58.9%) of the clergy correctly identified a vignette describing an individual with alcohol use disorder. Most (72.0%), however correctly endorsed the case described as severe. A majority endorsed multiple aetiologies for alcohol use disorders and were comfortable referring individuals with this problem to mental health professionals with two-thirds reporting that they could provide some assistance in collaboration with trained professionals.
Conclusion: Clergy surveyed in this study displayed a moderate ability in correctly identifying alcohol use disorders and were willing to collaborate with mental health professionals. Educational programs are needed to increase their detection rate and improve referrals.

Key words: Clergy, Collaboration, Alcohol use disorders, Mental health professionals.