Six months in Aceh.
OBJECTIVE
Brief case histories are presented of people with schizophrenia treated in the Indonesian province of Aceh, where the author worked as a clinical psychologist for Medecines Sans Frontieres in 2005. Aceh was severely affected by the December 2004 tsunami, with significant destruction and loss of life.


CONCLUSIONS
The case studies highlight the needs of patients and the current opportunities to establish more effective mental health services. The role of culture as a significant consideration and a possible barrier to accessing care is also discussed.
Hugo
Malcolm
M
Central Northern Adelaide Health Service, Mental Health Division, SA, Australia. malcolm.hugo@nwahs.sa.gov.au
D000328:Adult; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002391:Catchment Area, Health; D005260:Female; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006297:Health Services Accessibility / Q000592:standards; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D007214:Indonesia / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000592:standards; D008875:Middle Aged; D011586:Psychology, Clinical / Q000379:methods; D012149:Restraint, Physical; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D000078329:Workforce
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents