Role of Traditional Healers in the Management of Common Mental Disorders in Zamfara State, North West Nigeria

Traditional healers remain primary mental health service providers for a significant proportion of Nigerians, particularly in North West Nigeria where formal psychiatric services are sparse. This study investigates the role, methods, and outcomes associated with traditional healers managing common mental disorders in Zamfara State. A qualitative study using a phenomenological approach will recruit 25 traditional healers through purposive sampling from five local government areas and conduct in-depth interviews exploring their diagnostic systems, treatment modalities, patient populations, and referral practices. Twenty former patients managed by traditional healers will also be interviewed to document patient perspectives and treatment outcomes. Data will be analyzed using thematic analysis. The study will also map the geographical distribution of traditional healing facilities relative to formal psychiatric services using secondary administrative data. Prior qualitative studies in North West Nigeria reveal that traditional healers manage psychosis, epilepsy, and substance use disorders using plant-based remedies, prayer, and confinement, with variable outcomes. Findings will inform collaborative frameworks between traditional healers and formal healthcare systems in Zamfara State. Keywords: traditional healers, mental disorders, Zamfara State, North West Nigeria, traditional medicine