Strategies to destigmatize mental illness in South Africa: Social work perspective

ABSTRACT

Stigma is a contributing factor to non-help-seeking behavior and social isolation of mental health-care users. The study examined social workers’ perspective regarding strategies that can be implemented to destigmatize mental illness in South Africa. A qualitative study method was adopted. Data were sourced through focus group discussions with social work students and telephone interviews with social workers working in hospitals. Data were analyzed using a thematic approach. Active involvement, education, and awareness campaigns, creating opportunities for improved well-being and constant support, were identified as relevant strategies. Given that stigma is multidimensional, various strategies are important if mental illness is to be destigmatized.

KEYWORDS:

• Destigmatize
• mental health-care user
• mental illness
• social work
• social work student
• South Africa

Acknowledgments

The author wishes to thank all social work students and social workers in hospitals for taking part and providing valuable insight in this study.