Exploring the lived experience of alcohol use disorder patients in accessing hospitalized treatment care in Rwanda

BACKGROUND: Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a major mental health challenge in Rwanda, yet little is known about how individuals with AUD navigate the healthcare system. This study explored the lived experience of AUD patients when seeking and accessing inpatient treatment within the Rwandan context. METHODS: Semi structured qualitative interviews were conducted with inpatients diagnosed with AUD across three neuropsychiatric facilities in Rwanda. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify recurring patterns and themes related to care-seeking experiences. RESULTS: From 27 in-depth interviews, five main themes emerged. (1) Limited awareness and misinformation about AUD and its treatment contributed to delays in care initiation; (2) Initial help-seeking favored traditional healers over mental health professionals; (3) Structural barriers hindered timely access to mental health services; (4) Treatment led to meaningful recovery and high satisfaction with mental health services; (5) Psychosocial economic support played a key role in accessing care. CONCLUSIONS: Limited awareness of AUD and lack of reliable information about where to seek care, delayed access to treatment. Many participants did not know the location of treatment facilities or type of services available. Cultural preferences for traditional healers further delayed seeking mental health services, often until the crisis occurred. Family, community, and government support helped to facilitate access to treatment. Health insurance reduced the financial burden for many; however, gaps remain especially for non-medical in-hospital costs such as living expenses that were not covered by the insurance system. Targeted mental health education, stronger family and community engagement, and expanded outpatient services to support earlier intervention are needed. System priorities should include infrastructural development, workforce expansion, and more accessible financing to improve affordability and access to care for individuals with AUD.