A phenomenological study into Zimbabwean-Australian clergy’s understandings of the causes and their responses to mental health problems among Zimbabwean-Australians

This qualitative study explored the experiences and perspectives of 16 clergy members from African Initiated Churches in Australia. Through Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, data from semi-structured interviews was analyzed and found that mental health problems in the Zimbabwean-Australian community were attributed to both spiritual and psychological factors. Clergy play a crucial role as gatekeepers, often the initial point of contact for individuals experiencing mental distress. The study emphasizes the significance of spirituality and the critical role of clergy members in supporting individuals with mental health issues and connecting them to appropriate mental health services. Greater collaboration between clergy members and social work services is needed, and this research contributes to the mental health field and enhances social work understanding of the clergy's role in addressing mental health issues in African communities.