PREVALENCE AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS OF VIOLENT VICTIMIZATION AMONG ADULTS WITH SEVERE MENTAL ILLNESS RECEIVING FOLLOW-UP CARE AT PUBLIC HOSPITALS IN MEKELLE CITY, MEKELLE, TIGRAY, ETHIOPIA, 2025

Abstract

Background: Adults with severe mental illness are at increased risk of violent victimization, including physical assault, sexual violence, robbery, and threats with a weapon. These experiences can worsen psychiatric outcomes and reduce quality of life. Despite this, evidence in Ethiopia remains limited. Objective: To assess the prevalence and associated factors of violent victimization among adults with SMI receiving follow-up care at public hospitals in Mekelle City, Tigray, Ethiopia, 2025. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 adults with SMI from September 15 to October 15, 2025. A multistage sampling technique followed by systematic random sampling was used. Data were collected using an adapted and pretested International Crime Victim Survey (ICVS) questionnaire. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 27. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with violent victimization, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The lifetime prevalence of violent victimization was 62.7% (95% CI: 56.9%–68.2%), indicating a high burden among adults with SMI. Male sex (AOR = 4.39, 95% CI: 2.08–9.27), single marital status (AOR = 5.83, 95% CI: 1.97–17.29), low educational status (AOR = 4.77, 95% CI: 1.51–15.01), and history of suicidal behavior (AOR = 6.66, 95% CI: 2.47–17.98) were significantly associated with violent victimization. Conclusion: Violent victimization is highly prevalent among adults with SMI in this setting. Key socio-demographic and clinical factors significantly increase vulnerability. Integrating routine screening, strengthening psychosocial support, and enhancing legal protection mechanisms are essential to reduce victimization in this population. Keywords: Violent victimization, severe mental illness, suicidal behavior, Mekelle, Ethiopia