The global burden of mental illness is high but promoting comprehensive mental health services are neglected in most countries. The objective of the research was to discover causal beliefs of mental illness in Ethiopia. To achieve the study objective, the secondary data were collected from PubMed, WHO, PsycINFO, and Global Health data sources. Research journals published in the country from 2000 to 2017 were included and analyzed in a systematic manner. A total of 22 journals, articles and online sources have been collected. 14 journals focused on clinical issues which only focus on symptoms and prevalence of mental health problems were not included. Eight relevant journals which were directly in line with the study purpose were identified and included in the review. The causes of mental illness in Ethiopian community members’ associated with the religious and cultural beliefs, and its treatment linked to religious healing and the traditional practices.

Keywords: Causes, Beliefs, Mental-Illness, Ethiopia