Abstract

Evidence suggests that South African traditional healers (THs) treat various mental complaints. However, there is little literature on Swati THs' accounts on this subject. The current study therefore, sought to address this gap. Data was gathered using qualitative research methods, namely semi-structured interviews with 10 purposely sampled Swati THs practicing in the Kanyamazane peri-urban township (Mpumalanga Province, South Africa). Data was thematically analysed. Results showed that THs treat seven psychological aliments, viz. adjustment disorders, depression, mental illness due to ancestral calling, mental illness due to bewitchment, mental illness due to breaking of taboos, psychotic disturbance and substance induced mental illness. Generally, an integrated treatment protocol was utilised by THs to treat and manage these disorders. Most of these procedures are acceptable from either folkloric or scientific viewpoint, and have demonstrated certain level of efficacy in treating mental illness. Taken together, the evidence presented indicates that Swati THs use different traditional methods to manage various mental complaints. In doing so, they carry a large share of the community caseload for mental health, whilst admitting patients in their homes for extended periods of time, and also referring some (patients) for additional care within the Western health sector.

Highlights

  • A mental illness is a health problem that significantly affects how a person feels, thinks and behaves, diminishing one’s capacity for coping with ordinary demands of life[1]

  • The aim of the present study was to explore the different types of mental illness treated by Swati traditional healers, their opinions on the causes of mental illness, and the intervention methods they use to treat patients presenting with mental illness

  • The present study offers insight into the role played by Swati traditional healers (THs) in the treatment and management of mental disorders in the Kanyamazane peri-urban township (Mpumalanga Province, South Africa)

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Summary

Introduction

A mental illness is a health problem that significantly affects how a person feels, thinks and behaves, diminishing one’s capacity for coping with ordinary demands of life[1]. An integrated treatment protocol was utilised by THs to treat and manage these disorders Most of these procedures are acceptable from either folkloric or scientific viewpoint, and have demonstrated certain level of efficacy in treating mental illness. Conclusion: Taken together, the evidence presented indicates that Swati THs use different traditional methods to manage various mental complaints. In doing so, they carry a large share of the community caseload for mental health, whilst admitting patients in their homes for extended periods of time, and referring some (patients) for additional care within the Western health sector. Psychological ailments and their treatment protocols: a case study of Swati traditional healers in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa.

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