Mental health-seeking behaviours in rural communities: insights from the Bushbuckridge Mkhuhlu community, Mpumalanga Province.

Abstract

Mental health is important, but it is often overlooked as a component of overall well-being in rural South African communities. This study investigated the complex factors that impact help-seeking behaviours among individuals in Mkhuhlu, Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga. Situated within the Health Belief Model (HBM), Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), and the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), it employed a mixed-methods, sequential, explanatory design. It utilised survey questionnaires and qualitative interviews. Data from 200 respondents were analysed using the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test to identify significant differences in mental health perceptions and behaviours across gender, age, and educational level. The qualitative data (n = 8) were analysed thematically, providing a richer context for the observed statistical trends. The results reveal that awareness of mental health, perceived obstacles, and sociocultural attitudes considerably affect help-seeking behaviours. The study found that mental health conditions were commonly framed as a “rich/white man’s disease,” indicating how socio-economic inequality and cultural beliefs influence understandings of mental health. Women and participants with higher educational attainment exhibited a better understanding and more favourable attitudes toward mental health services. It finds that a complex interaction of structural, cultural, and personal elements affects the behaviour of seeking mental health support in rural regions, thus leading to a strong dependence on traditional sources of support. It reveals that help-seeking behaviour is not homogeneous, with women, younger individuals, and those with higher education demonstrating a greater willingness and capacity to seek care. It recommends an integrated strategy that addresses challenges at both individual and community levels to promote a healthier environment for mental health across Mkhuhlu and Bushbuckridge. The study could influence mental health policies and the design of interventions in rural areas. It may provide guidance for developing culturally sensitive mental health education programs that account for local cultural and community norms. Future research should investigate collaborations between traditional and formal health systems and evaluate the long-term effects of community mental health literacy initiatives.