Aisha Katsina Isa, a Pharmacist, Researcher and Public Health advocate, holds a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from Igbinedion University, Okada, Nigeria. She is currently pursuing a Master of Public Health at the University of Illinois Springfield, USA, where her work focuses on integrating mental health and disability support systems for underserved communities in Springfield and selected areas in Nigeria. In this exclusive interview, she discusses the inspiration behind her research and her commitment to advancing equitable healthcare solutions. COLLINS NNABUIFE brings excerpts
What inspired you to focus on mental health initiatives in marginalized communities, particularly among the homeless?
Growing up in Nigeria, I witnessed the strength and resilience of communities dealing with many challenges, but I also saw how limited access to mental health care and awareness impacted their lives. When I moved to the United States, I noticed similar challenges faced by marginalized groups, especially people experiencing homelessness, who struggle with access to mental health services. These observations inspired me to use my expertise in public health to address these challenges and push for changes in systems to ensure mental health care is accessible and equitable for everyone.
How has your background and experience shaped your public health research in the United States?
My upbringing in Nigeria gave me a unique perspective, teaching me the value of community support, resourcefulness, and understanding cultural traditions in healthcare. These experiences influence how I approach research by emphasizing the importance of listening to the voices of marginalized communities, understanding their experiences, and designing solutions that are culturally appropriate and effective. This approach allows me to address challenges in diverse populations by respecting their unique needs and backgrounds.
Can you share the main findings from your research on the role of community and faith-based organizations in addressing mental health issues in minority communities?
My research found that community and faith-based organizations play a vital role in addressing mental health disparities. They provide safe spaces, reduce the stigma around mental health, and offer services that align with cultural values. However, these organizations could expand their impact by collaborating more with public health agencies. Stronger partnerships would help improve access to mental health care for underserved communities and address systemic barriers to care.
Your presentation at the Illinois Public Health Association Conference focused on integrating mental health and disability support systems. Why is this integration important?
Mental health and disability often intersect, but the services to support each are typically offered separately. My research highlights that combining these services can improve care for vulnerable underserved communities. Many individuals with disabilities are also at higher risk of mental health challenges, and combining services ensures they can access comprehensive and coordinated care, instead of falling through gaps in disconnected systems.
What are the main challenges to mental health care for homeless individuals in the United States, and how are you addressing these challenges?
The biggest barriers include stigma, mistrust of the healthcare system, and competing priorities such as finding food and shelter. I draw on experiences from Nigeria, where grassroots community efforts are effective in reaching underserved populations, to propose solutions like mobile health clinics, peer support groups, and partnerships with local shelters and community organizations. These strategies build trust, improve access, and ensure care is accessible for people who are often overlooked.
How does cultural sensitivity guide your approach to public health work?
Cultural sensitivity is a key part of my work because mental health is strongly influenced by cultural beliefs, traditions, and values. Growing up in Nigeria taught me to approach mental health care with respect and understanding of cultural differences. In the United States, this means creating interventions that are culturally aware and tailored to connect with the diverse backgrounds of the communities I aim to serve, especially those in marginalized or underserved populations.
What are your long-term goals for your research and public health efforts?
My long-term goal is to create mental health care models that are sustainable, culturally sensitive, and accessible to marginalized groups, such as the homeless. I hope my work will lead to policy changes and improved public health strategies to reduce mental health disparities. Additionally, I am committed to applying these lessons to advocate for improved mental health policies in Nigeria, where mental health funding and awareness are critical areas in need of attention. I believe that the insights from my work can guide systemic reforms and promote mental health care as a priority in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Why does this work matter?
This research shines a light on the urgent need to address mental health disparities in underserved communities. It highlights challenges in the U.S. while providing insights that can also benefit Nigeria’s mental health system. Aisha Katsina Isa’s efforts and findings show how innovation, cultural sensitivity, and partnerships can lead to real change in mental health care systems and policies worldwide.
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