South Africa: In-Depth - Can CHWs Help Expand Access to Mental Health Services in SA?

South Africa faces a severe mental health burden compounded by a chronic shortage of mental health practitioners in the public sector. Over 30% of those living in South Africa have experienced a depressive, anxiety, or substance use disorder in their lifetime, according to a national survey. Yet studies show only 15% of those with mental health conditions receive treatment.

Part of this can be attributed to disparities in mental health personnel across provinces. According to a 2019 report, the availability of psychiatrists across the country ranges from 0.08 to 0.89 per 100 000 uninsured people. The average number of mental health workers globally is 9 per 100 000 people, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

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