Abstract:
The growing number of young people in schools presenting with mental illness is
increasingly becoming a disconcerting issue locally and globally. This qualitative study
sought to explore the perceptions of mental illness by learners drawn from four
secondary schools in Ga-Dikgale rural community (Limpopo Province). Twenty-seven
learners (males = 14; females = 13) were selected through purposive sampling and
requested to participate in the study. Semi-structured individual interviews and focus
group discussions (n = 2) were conducted. The following three themes emerged from
the data: a) Knowledge of mental illness, its causes and symptoms b) Knowledge on
the management and types of interventions needed for mental illness c) Challenges
associated with mentally ill people. The themes and sub-themes emerging suggested
deep seated Afrocentric cultural perceptions which tended to shape learners’ views
and understanding of mental illness. Some paradoxical explanations with regard to
mental illness also emerged. Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended
that mental health literacy campaigns be conducted in schools
