Cultural Influence on Health-Seeking Behaviors among Kenyan Women with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

Abstract

Purpose of Study:This qualitative systematic review examines how these cultural and social dynamics influence help-seeking behaviors among Kenyan women with AUD, drawing from peer-reviewed studies published between 2014 and 2024.Problem Statement:Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) among women in Kenya is more than a health concern; it is a deeply rooted issue shaped by cultural expectations, gender norms, and systemic inequalities.Methodology:The articles were systematically assessed, and a general trend was observedwithin the Kenyan women's population. Findings:The findings reveal a layered reality: women who drink often face harsh judgment, stigma, and social invisibility, largely due to traditional beliefs that associate femininity with caregiving, self-sacrifice, and moral virtue. Many women shoulder significant family responsibilities without adequate support, especially from partners or extended family, which further limits their ability to seek help. Treatment options arealso lacking. Services rarely account for women’s specific needs, and mental health support is often poorly integrated into substance use care. Religious institutions present a dual reality, offering comfort and connection for some, while reinforcing shame and stigma for others.Conclusion and Recommendation:This review highlightsthese issues and further suggeststhe urgent need for culturally sensitive, gender-responsive interventions that reflect women’s lived experiences. By addressing stigma, expanding access to care, and building supportive community networks, we can foster a more inclusive and compassionate approach to AUD recovery. These will offerguidance for shaping mental health and substance use policies across Sub-SaharanAfrica.