Capturing voices: how to implement photovoice in mental health research

Imagine giving someone a camera and asking them to tell their story through images. The narrative shifts from words alone to something more powerful—visual, tangible, and deeply personal. This is the essence of Photovoice, a participatory research method that merges photography with storytelling, empowering individuals to share their lived experiences. Developed by Wang and Burris in the 1990s, Photovoice serves as a tool for community engagement, fostering dialogue, bridging gaps in understanding, and inspiring action. By enabling individuals to document their realities, it elevates marginalized voices and presents compelling visual narratives that demand attention and change (Hanna & Hanna, 2023). My life feels like this tree—tired and worn from the daily struggles of work and home. But I still have hope. Just like the tree grows new leaves after a tough season, I believe better days will come for me too (Farida_SK(Female)_Barisal).

In mental health research, Photovoice has gained prominence as an approach that uncovers deep insights into lived experiences. One study highlighted how participant-produced photographs captured the stigma, struggles, and recovery journeys of individuals with mental illness (Han & Oliffe, 2016). This demonstrates the transformative potential of Photovoice—not just in research, but as a means of advocacy and system-wide change. The SHINE Project—Strengthening Health Systems by Addressing Community Health Workers’ Mental Well-Being and Agency—integrates Photovoice to document the realities of Community Health Workers (CHWs). Through this method, CHWs become active participants rather than subjects of research, using photography to illustrate their daily experiences. A picture of an empty clinic, an overburdened health worker, or a rare moment of camaraderie among colleagues tells a story that words alone may struggle to convey. By capturing these moments, CHWs highlight their challenges, their resilience, and the systemic changes required to support their mental well-being.

This participatory approach strengthens advocacy efforts by ensuring CHWs’ voices are heard in discussions with policymakers and health system stakeholders. The images they produce serve as evidence, making the case for more supportive policies, better working conditions, and mental health resources within the healthcare system.