The experiences of social workers in the provision of mental health services in Tshwane, Gauteng province

Abstract

Social workers have a significant role to play in the provision of mental health services. Their role and function depend on the settings in which they are employed. The social work profession focuses on the individuals’ relationships with the environment and recognizes the impact that the social, economic and cultural aspects have on their health and well-being (Australian Association of Social Workers, 2015:3). In providing mental health services, social workers encounter myriad challenges, hence, the need to explore their experiences was identified. The aim of the study was to explore the experiences of social workers in the provision of mental health services in Tshwane, Gauteng province. This exploratory study targeted social workers employed by North Gauteng Mental Health Society, which is an organisation that provides mental health services in Tshwane. Qualitative research was used in this study, using an instrumental case study design to explore the experiences of social workers in the provision of mental health services. Non-probability purposive sampling was used to select the sample of nine participants who met the selection criteria. Data was collected through a semi-structured interview, using an interview guide. Data was analysed through a thematic analysis. The ecological systems perspective provided substantiation for this study to explore a range of issues within the micro, meso, exo, macro and chrono level systems within which the mentally ill person functions and the extent to which the mental health services and resources support this relationship. The findings of the study revealed that participants had limited knowledge of mental health services in general, including DSM and the Mental Health Care Act (17 of 2002). It became evident from this study that the training received on the BSW undergraduate level did not adequately prepare the participants to practice in the mental health field, and they have consequently gained additional knowledge through attending in-service training. The main roles and tasks that they perform include: support and supervision, therapeutic services, education and awareness and advocacy. The study further revealed that participants received supervision and support both from their organisation and from external sources, although others viewed this as inadequate. Participants also encountered challenges in the provision of mental health services. Lastly, the study found both positive and negative experiences that participants encountered in the provision of mental health services. The following recommendations were made: Mental health should be incorporated into undergraduate training and in-service training needs to be offered regularly in the workplace. Adequate resources ought to be made available and intersectoral collaboration needs to be strengthened. Future research needs to be conducted in this field, nationally in the South African context, to add to the gap identified in the existing literature.