Longitudinal experiences and risk factors for common mental health problems and suicidal behaviours among female sex workers in Nairobi, Kenya.
Alicja BeksinskaPooja ShahMary KunguRhoda KabutiHellen BabuZaina JamaMamtuti PannehEmily NyarikiChrispo NyabutoMonica OkumuPauline NgurukiriErastus IrunguRupert KaulJanet SeeleyMitzy GafosTara S BeattieHelen Anne WeissJoshua KimaniPublished in: Global mental health (Cambridge, England) (2022)
Our study found a decline in mental health problems but high levels of persistent suicidal behaviours among FSWs. Syndemic risk factors including food insecurity and violence were longitudinally associated with mental health problems and recent suicidal behaviours. There is a need for accessible mental health services for FSWs, alongside structural interventions addressing poverty and violence.