Community-Based Rehabilitation as a Cultural Strategy for Mental Health Recovery in Developing Societies

Abstract

This study examines community-based rehabilitation (CBR) as a culturally grounded strategy for mental health recovery in developing societies, aiming to analyze how cultural values and community structures influence rehabilitation outcomes. A qualitative approach was employed using a multiple case study design, selected for its capacity to explore complex social phenomena within real-life contexts and to enable cross-context comparison. The research was conducted in two locations in Indonesia, representing semi-urban and rural settings with active CBR programs. A total of twelve informants were purposively selected, consisting of program implementers, health professionals, community leaders, service users, and family members, based on their direct involvement and experiential knowledge of mental health recovery processes. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis, and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that culturally embedded CBR initiatives significantly reduce stigma, enhance community participation, and promote holistic recovery through social reintegration and culturally adapted practices. The study concludes that integrating cultural dimensions into rehabilitation strategies strengthens program effectiveness and sustainability. It recommends the development of culturally responsive policies and the expansion of community-driven mental health interventions.