Mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety disorders, are increasingly recognized as significant public health challenges worldwide. In Nigeria, particularly in Rivers State, the psychosocial and emotional well-being of patients with mental health disorders is often undermined by limited access to professional care, social stigma, and inadequate institutional support. This study examines the roles of medical social workers in the management of mental health conditions, the challenges affecting the effectiveness of their interventions, and the impact of these interventions on patients’ psychosocial well-being and recovery outcomes. The system theory was adopted for theoretical clarity for the study. The study employed a descriptive survey research design involving a qualitative method, utilizing semi-structured interviews with medical social workers in Rivers State. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the responses. Findings revealed that medical social workers play critical roles in counseling, case management, family engagement, advocacy, and community awareness, all of which enhance emotional stability, social functioning, and reintegration into families and communities. However, their effectiveness is hindered by resource limitations, workforce shortages, social stigma, economic barriers, and institutional constraints. The study further demonstrated that well-coordinated social work interventions positively influence patients’ psychosocial well-being, adherence to treatment, and recovery outcomes, underscoring the importance of integrating social work services into mental healthcare delivery. Based on the findings, the study recommends strengthening policy support and funding for mental health services, enhancing the training and capacity of medical social workers, and promoting community awareness to reduce stigma. These measures are essential for improving the quality, accessibility, and sustainability of mental health care in Rivers State.
OFURUM JOY CHIKODI (2026) studied this question.