title: 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.
authors.affiliation: a Department of Social Work , University of Venda , Thohoyandou , South Africa.
authors.forename: Thabisa Coleen
authors.initials: TC
authors.lastname: Matsea
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003142:Communication; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000592:standards* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D028642:Persons with Psychiatric Disorders / Q000523:psychology*; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012649:Self Concept; D057545:Social Stigma; D012944:Social Support; D012949:Social Work, Psychiatric / Q000193:education / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*; D013019:South Africa; D013336:Students, Health Occupations / Q000523:psychology*
keywords: Destigmatize; South Africa; mental health-care user; mental illness; social work; social work student