Tech in Africa
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in South Africa has launched a video to help residents deal with the fear and anxiety that is brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. The project was a creation of by UKZN’s department of psychology, in collaboration with Centre for Rural Health and an adult education specialist.
The individuals behind the project were Gugu Gigaba, the lead and psychologist, Professor Inge Petersen who commissioned it, Dr. Ruwayda Petrus, and Ntokozo Mntambo both from the Centre for Rural Health. The video content was developed by an education specialist, Gill Faris.
The message behind the short video depicts a person responding to ideas, thoughts, words and emotions they are feeling or thinking on a particular subject and how it affects their behavior.
Petrus depicts how the video gives an “explanation of what is going on in their minds” while helping them comprehend “how anxiety works.” The video also shares ways you can get over the situation if the video techniques don’t work out in your case. The video text is in English but the video vocals are in IsiZulu, broadening its appeal.
Gigaba points out the rationale for using gender-neutral characters in the video. As well as challenge narratives on “men and masculinity” especially in regards to speaking on health matters. The idea is to use a creative approach that does not offend or stir up controversy when communicating the effects of anxiety.
With social distancing measures in place, researchers and mental health professionals have been rendered helpless as they are unable to wok with society. The message conveyed by the video has received a favorable endorsement from the KwaZulu-Natal’s Department of Health Mental Health Directorate.
