Experiences of an unconditional cash transfer intervention among young adults with first-episode psychosis in South...

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Research
• Social Sciences
• Public Health

Background:

• Social protection through cash transfers can reduce common mental disorders.
• The acceptability of unconditional cash transfer (UCT) for young adults with first-episode psychosis (FEP) in sub-Saharan Africa is unknown.
• This study addresses the gap by exploring UCT acceptability among FEP patients and caregivers in South Africa.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the experiences and acceptability of an unconditional cash transfer (UCT) intervention among patients with FEP.
• To understand how UCT impacts daily living, treatment adherence, and overall well-being.
• To gather recommendations for optimizing UCT in mental health support.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative descriptive phenomenological study was conducted in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
• Ten FEP patients and their caregivers were interviewed using a semi-structured guide.
• Data were analyzed using NVIVO 14 and interpretive phenomenology.

Main Results:

• The UCT intervention was well-accepted by FEP patients and their caregivers.
• Funds were primarily used for essential needs like transportation and groceries.
• UCT indirectly improved family relationships, medication adherence, and reduced stress for patients and caregivers.

Conclusions:

• Unconditional cash transfer interventions are acceptable and positively experienced by FEP patients.
• Enhanced social protection mechanisms are crucial for supporting engagement in mental health treatment for FEP.
• UCT can be a valuable tool in comprehensive mental healthcare strategies for vulnerable populations.