Seeking Healthcare in Many Different Places: Mental Health Strengths and Challenges Among Omani Female Adolescents

Abstract

Background

Adolescents undergo overwhelming physiological, psychological, social, and cognitive changes. The stress can be worse when they must meet cultural expectations. However, there is a paucity of literature regarding the cultural impact on adolescent mental health.

Purpose

The phenomenological study aimed to describe Omani female adolescents' lived experiences with mental health issues within their cultural context and future well-being.

Methods

The study employed semi-structured individual interview questions using a secured videoconferencing Zoom meeting. The participants were recruited using purposive sampling. The participants included single female Omani adolescents (aged: 18–24 years). A horizontalization analysis followed the transcription, translation, and backward translation process.

Findings

Twelve participants were included which was the point of data saturation. The study's findings revealed the following major themes: 1. The profound influence of Omani culture on female adolescent mental health; 2. The crucial impact of parenting on decision-making; 3. The sensitive issue of cultural taboo and 4. The alarming reality of mental health stigmatization. These findings underscore the urgent need for culturally relevant and age-appropriate interventions, emphasizing the potential impact of this study on the field.

Conclusions

It is urgent that nurse leaders across levels (practice, education, research, and policy) actively collaborate with other stakeholders. Together, nurse leaders can initiate discussions and negotiations to reflect the health needs of Omani female adolescents through the development of protocols, interventions, guidelines, and policies that are culturally relevant and age-appropriate.