Decision-making surrounding distress, depression and suicidal ideation: findings of a vignette study with primary health care practitioners in Lebanon [Working paper]

Abstract

This working paper presents early findings from a vignette-based study exploring how primary health care (PHC) providers in Lebanon assess and respond to cases of mental ill-health, including distress, depression, and suicidal ideation. Sixty-one healthcare providers from PHC centers in Beirut and the Bekaa participated in the study using an interactive, web-based vignette tool that simulated patient cases. Each participant reviewed three vignettes varying by patient gender, nationality, and mental health severity. Providers assessed symptom severity, selected treatment options, and chose appropriate referrals. Although detailed findings are withheld to preserve the novelty of forthcoming peer-reviewed work, general trends suggest that provider decision-making varies based on professional role, patient profile, and regional context. The study underscores the potential of PHCCs to support early mental health intervention and the feasibility of vignette-based tools for research in fragile settings.