Original Research
A student-facilitated community-based support group initiative for Mental Health Care users in a Primary Health Care setting
Submitted: 11 January 2018 | Published: 15 December 2017
About the author(s)
Leana Meiring, Department of Psychology, University of South Africa, South AfricaMaretha Visser, Department of Psychology, University of Pretoria, South Africa
Nicola Themistocleous, Department of Psychology, University of South Africa, South Africa
Full Text:
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Methods: Qualitative research methods were applied. Data were collected using semistructured interviews and a collage-making and storytelling method. Thematic analysis highlighted the main themes representing the meaning the five participants ascribed to the group.
Results: The findings suggest that the group offered the participants a sense of belonging and a means of social and emotional support. The group also created opportunity for learning, encouraged mental and physical mobilisation and stimulation, and served as an additional link to professional services.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that student-facilitated support groups could offer a viable supplement for offering support to service users in PHC settings. The group assisted MHC users to cope with symptoms, social integration, and participating in meaningful activities as part of rehabilitation services.
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