Information-seeking behaviour among informal mental-health caregivers in a rural Malawian setting

Abstract

Background: Caregivers of clients with mental health illnesses play a critical role in treatment and recovery. However, little is known about their information-seeking behaviour, especially in rural Malawi, where access to mental health resources remains limited.
Objectives: This study aimed to explore the information-seeking behaviours of informal caregivers of clients with mental health illness in Neno District, Malawi, focusing on their information needs, sources and barriers.
Method: A qualitative exploratory design was employed. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 11 purposively selected informal caregivers of mental health illness clients. Data were analysed inductively using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis, with interpretation guided by Wilson’s Model of Information Behaviour.
Results: Informal caregivers sought information on understanding mental illness, medication adherence, coping mechanisms and available community support. Primary sources included psychiatric nurses, mental health clinicians, health surveillance assistants and traditional and religious leaders. Key barriers to information access included stigma, low literacy levels, long distances to health facilities and lack of tailored health education materials. Despite these challenges, informal caregivers developed coping strategies such as peer support networks and consulting trusted community figures.
Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of strengthening mental health information dissemination strategies tailored to informal caregivers’ needs in rural contexts. Health professionals and stakeholders must consider socio-cultural and logistical challenges faced by informal caregivers.
Contribution: The findings provide important insights into the lived experiences of informal caregivers in rural Malawi, offering a basis for designing targeted interventions to improve mental health literacy and support systems in similar rural African settings.