Clinical manifestations of mental disorders among Sesotho speakers

Abstract

Objective. The goal of this study was to compare four Sesotho-speaking clinical groups in South Africa concerning the manifestation of mental disorders. Methods. The participants were Sesotho speakers suffering from major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders and substance abuse. The participants (N=407) were assessed and diagnosed by a multi-professional team. A clinical interview was then conducted with each participant and the symptomatology compared with the DSM-IV-TR criteria. Results. Differences among the four clinical groups were found regarding age, gender, marital status, substance abuse and aggressive behavior. Although the symptomatology of all four groups overlapped with that of their counterparts in Western cultures, some differences were noted. For example, delusions and hallucinations seem to be more prevalent in the Sesotho speakers with major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders than in Westernized groups. Traditional medicine remains the first treatment of choice for a significant number of the participants. It is recommended that traditional medicine should be incorporated into the national health system. Conclusion. In multicultural societies such as South Africa, further research regarding cultural differences in the clinical manifestation of mental disorders is urgently needed in order to make the necessary provision for cultural uniqueness.

Profile of mentally ill offenders referred to the Free State Psychiatric Complex

“…This is understandable given that the average age at which South Africans enter into marriage is 30 years. 9 The crimes were mainly against persons (77.5%), with rape being the most common (26.8%) (Table I). Of the 18 property-related crimes, one-third (N = 6) involved malicious damage to property (Table I).…”

Schizophrenia among Sesotho speakers in South Africa

“…2 In the last few decades, studies have compared schizophrenia in different cultures. 3 However, a lack of commonality among various methodological approaches and clear criteria for diagnosis and management makes comparisons difficult. This problem is especially apparent in South Africa with its extraordinary cultural diversity.…”