Influence of Behaviour of Youth with Mental Health Challenges in a Secure Care Facility on Staff Members and Fellow Residents

When the youth, regardless of their mental status or age, face mental health challenges and engage in criminal activities, they are placed in child and youth care centres (CYCC) in a secure care programme across the country. Unfortunately, these secure care facilities lack proper systems to meet the needs and ensure the safety of mentally ill youth. There is evidence that the rate of mental health disorders is higher among youth in the juvenile justice system than in the general population, and these CYCCs are not adequately equipped to address the challenges presented by mentally ill youth. This article presents a greater understanding of the views and perceptions of staff members and fellow residents (peer counsellors) working with youth with mental health challenges in six provinces, namely: Eastern Cape, Gauteng, Limpopo, Northern Cape, North West, and Western Cape. In this qualitative study, a total of twelve participants were interviewed through semi-structured interviews. These participants, who make up the multidisciplinary team at the facilities, include social workers, psychologists, child and youth care workers, occupational therapists, nurses, educators, and instructors. The findings highlight a significant gap in knowledge about mental health challenges among youth, which can result in the mismanagement of those affected. This research offers valuable insights into the behaviours of these young individuals, enhancing our understanding of their experiences. Understanding their views and perceptions provides vital information to develop social work practices on these grounds. This study resulted in the development of guidelines for the behaviour management and care of youth living with mental health challenges. The findings and recommendations will be implemented in state-run CYCCs, as confirmed by the national Department of Social Development.