Feasibility evaluation of psychosocial intervention for internally displaced youth in Kenya

There is limited evidence on the cultural appropriateness of first-stage psychosocial interventions for youth with mental health problems who experience conflict and disadvantage in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC).

To evaluate the feasibility of such an intervention (Writing for Recovery - WfR) among youth with emerging emotional problems following internal displacement in Kenya.

Fifty-four youth aged 14-17 years were randomly allocated to a six-session intervention or a waiting list control group. They completed measures of stressful life events; post-traumatic stress, depressive and anxiety symptoms; quality of life; and free text on their experience of the intervention.

Young participants reported high levels of trauma exposure and emotional problems. The intervention was perceived as flexible and culturally acceptable, with reported short-term impact. This was found to have promising post-intervention effect in reducing post-traumatic stress, but not depressive or anxiety symptoms; and in enhancing quality of life scores.

Similar psychosocial interventions that can be delivered by paraprofessionals are important for resource-constrained LMIC settings, but need to be integrated within a comprehensive scaled service model.