Recovery from Mental Illness : Understanding the Therapeutic Interventions of Shifaa Centres

Noor Mohamed Abdinoor; Ahmed Osman Warfa

doi:10.53449/nvhnxr24

Authors

Noor Mohamed Abdinoor Garissa University, Kenya https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9970-3715
Ahmed Osman Warfa Garissa University, Kenya

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53449/nvhnxr24

Keywords:

Jinn, mental health, shifaa, spirituality, therapy

Abstract

This paper examines the therapeutic interventions of Shifaa centres in Garissa County, Kenya. Shifaa centres are becoming popular and significantly sought for mental health services. The aim of this inter-disciplinary research was to explain the therapeutic interventions of Shifaa centre. The study clarifies the inter-play of conventional psychiatric methods and spiritual/religious oriented techniques of offering mental health services. Data was gathered from two Shifaa centres in Garissa County-Kenya. In-depth interviews were conducted with two medical personnel, two psycho-social counsellors, one religious expert and one administrative staff working in two centres. The outcome reveals spirituality and religion as basis for mental recovery. Therapeutic interventions utilized in Shifaa centres were robust, hybrid and effective. Shifaa centres reported a significant number of clients having recovered from mental illness. However, there were some instances of relapse in substance induced psychotic patients after discharge. This blended approach need to be recognized, institutionalized and promoted because of its significant positive impact on mental health recovery and its value addition to human life. Further researches are recommended on larger samples and in other towns and studies of causes of relapse. Detailed research to unravel the concept of dealing with Jinn (unseen spirit possession) will add more value.

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Author Biographies

Noor Mohamed Abdinoor, Garissa University, Kenya

Chair of Department of Education Science and ECPE
Ahmed Osman Warfa, Garissa University, Kenya

Vice Chancellor

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