The current state of mental health research in Mozambique: a scoping review protocol of studies from the last 15 years

Introduction: Mental health is a fundamental component of overall well-being, underpinning our ability to make both individual and collective decisions. In Mozambique, human and financial resources for public mental health services are extremely limited. Understanding the state of mental health and the resources available is crucial for developing effective interventions and public health policies. Methods and Analysis: This scoping review will follow the methodological framework outlined by Arksey and O'Malley (2005). We will conduct a comprehensive search of electronic databases (Google Scholar, PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE) and grey literature sources to identify studies from 2009 to 2024. Inclusion criteria include studies on Mozambican mental health matters published in English and Portuguese. A two-stage screening process will be used, involving title and abstract screening followed by full-text screening. Data will be extracted using a standardized form and analyzed through quantitative synthesis to identify trends, gaps, and future directions in mental health research in Mozambique. The review will adhere to the PRISMA-ScR guidelines to ensure transparency and completeness. Ethics and Dissemination: This scoping review involves the analysis of data from previously published studies and does not require direct interaction with human participants or access to confidential data, thus ethical approval is not necessary. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, national conferences, and the Open Science Framework (OSF) to promote transparency and accessibility.