Inclusive approach for psychosocial health management among the Khoisan and Chewa communities in Southern Africa

Purpose This study aims to develop an inclusive approach for psychosocial health management among the Khoisan and Chewa communities of Southern Africa. Design/methodology/approach Real-life vignettes were used as a data collection method, employing community-based participatory action research with two participant communities, the Khoisan community in South Africa and the Chewa community in Malawi. For data handling, we followed the core mechanisms of classical Grounded theory. To analyze the data, thematic analysis was used. A total of four participative sessions were conducted, two for each participant group. Findings The research revealed one main theme, “Communal psychosocial lifestyle (CPL),” and three subthemes: highlighting shared cultural belief systems, communal therapeutic techniques and co-living systems, informed by the coexistence of African and Western worldviews. Shaping a way of life central to psychosocial health management and emphasizing a community-led approach structured in three layers, involving the family, the wider community and local healthcare systems. Practical implications CPL demonstrates that psychosocial health can be strengthened when mental health care moves beyond individual treatment to include communal and culturally grounded healing practices; promoting social inclusion by positioning the Khoisan and Chewa people as custodians of their psychosocial health care. Social implications This inclusive approach to psychosocial health management among the Khoisan and Chewa uniquely contributes to the revitalization of Indigenous health practices. Originality/value There are limited studies on psychosocial health management among indigenous communities in Southern Africa; thereby adding to the body of knowledge for psychosocial health management among indigenous communities.