The Impact of Poverty on Mental Health among Rural Women: A Case of Sadza Community, Zimbabwe

This study investigates the impact of poverty on mental health, among rural women. The main objectives are, to assess depression, anxiety and stress levels and to explore their impact among rural women. Data was collected using a quantitative self-administered questionnaire, the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale – 21 Items (DASS-21) test tool, and analysis was carried out using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). A total of 70 respondents took part in the study, with findings indicating that moderate to severe levels of depression are present among the women, which clinically warrants professional help. Contributing factors precluding the respondents from seeking assistance included fear of stigma, or separation from family and loved ones. The study also revealed that poverty affects women differently across varying stages of their lives. Some of the challenges identified ranged from poorly rewarded labour, early marriage, sexual abuse, discrimination, and inequality. Women in the rural community indicated that they live in abject poverty, experiencing lack of basic needs such as food, water, shelter, and poor access to adequate health services. Regardless, the women continue to meet their obligations to their families and community. Solutions suggested included intensive primary health interventions through health education campaigns, self-help initiatives and strengthening community support systems among the women. Through economic-empowerment, and entrepreneurship training and involvement in income generating activities, such as livestock ownership and small-scale agriculture enterprises, women can be freed from the impact of poverty on their mental-health.