The CMED-C study addresses the lack of community-based mental health screening and limited mental health literacy among children, adolescents, and caregivers in South Africa. It aims to develop a practical tool to improve understanding of mental health, support early detection of possible conditions, and strengthen pathways to care for young people aged 6–18 and their families.
Using formative research with adolescents, caregivers, and service providers, the tool is being co-developed to ensure cultural and contextual relevance. The CMED-C combines mental health detection, psychoeducation, and referral guidance, and is being tested for accuracy, feasibility, and integration into the routine work of community health worker teams.
By equipping households and community health workers with a simple, evidence-based tool, CMED-C can bridge the gap between communities and mental health services. It has the potential to promote early help-seeking, reduce stigma, and strengthen community-level support for child and adolescent mental wellbeing in South Africa.
Prof. Inge Petersen
Dr. Tasneem Kathree
Associate Professor Zamasomi Luvuno
Professor Arvin Bhana
Associate Professor Andre Van Rensburg
July 2024 - June 2027
The Child Mind Institute Inc.
SA MRC (SIR Grant)
Child and Adolescent mental health
Community-based detection
Mental health literacy
Self-care
