Culture and help-seeking behaviour in the rural communities of Limpopo, South Africa: unearthing beliefs of mental health care users and caregivers

The study employed a qualitative approach to explore the cultural beliefs of mental health care users (MHCUs) and caregivers regarding help-seeking behaviour in the rural communities of the Limpopo Province, South Africa. Forty participants were interviewed, comprising 30 MHCUs and 10 caregivers. Mental illness was ascribed to witchcraft (uvuloyi) and help was mostly sought from traditional and religious healers as the first steps on the path of help-seeking, whereas Western forms of care were usually considered as a last resort. The factors found to influence help-seeking behaviour amongst the participants included lack of knowledge regarding mental illness; traditional beliefs; stigma and discrimination; and the side effects of the antipsychotic medication. The study suggests the importance of psychoeducation for caregivers and the community regarding mental illness and cultural competence in serving communities with cultural beliefs about mental illness. Media platforms should be utilised to raise public awareness. The study also suggests collaboration between different stakeholders working with MHCUs.