Authors: Khalaeng Frans Thobane, Fhumulani Mavis Mulaudzi, Ndivhaleni Robert Lavhelani, Rodwell Gundo
The World Health Organization and South Africa’s Mental Health Care Act promote providing mental health services in communities by involving community health workers (CHWs). This study reviewed literature to find out what helps or hinders this approach. Out of 15 articles reviewed, 9 met the criteria. It found that challenges include insufficient training, stigma, family resistance, lack of supervision, equipment, and confidentiality issues. On the positive side, ongoing training, familiarity with the community, collaboration with key stakeholders, and the overall feasibility of sharing mental health tasks with CHWs were identified as key factors. Managing the challenges could make it possible to effectively implement this approach.
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Resource Topic: Mental health
Resource Type: Review
Year: 2024
Region: Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA)
Country: South Africa
Publisher May Restrict Access: No
