Combining a guided self-help and brief alcohol intervention to improve mental health and reduce substance use among refugee men in Uganda: a cluster-randomized feasibility trial

Evidence on the effectiveness and implementation of mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) interventions for men in humanitarian settings is limited, and engagement and retention of men in such interventions has been challenging. Adaptations may therefore be required to improve the appropriateness and acceptability of these interventions for men.

This study conducted formative research and examined the feasibility of combining Self-Help Plus, a group-based MHPSS intervention, with a brief intervention to reduce harmful alcohol use among refugee men in Uganda. A cluster randomised feasibility trial compared the combined intervention, Self-Help Plus alone, and enhanced usual care.

Participants were 168 South Sudanese refugee men in Rhino Settlement who reported moderate or high levels of psychological distress. Session attendance was adequate, with at least 69% of participants present at each session. Outcome measures included symptoms of psychological distress, functional impairment, depressive and post-traumatic stress symptoms, substance use risk and wellbeing, and were sensitive to change.

Findings suggest that a combined approach to addressing mental health and alcohol use is feasible among refugee men, though further research is needed to examine its effectiveness.