Health practitioners lend a helping hand

While some may be coping well, others continue to suffer in silence. This should not be the case.

Acting manager of acute and chronic care at the City of Ekurhuleni’s Health and Social Department Patrick Magodzho said this year’s World Mental Health Day, celebrated on October 10, comes at a time when people’s daily lives have changed considerably, making it paramount for residents not to turn a blind eye on mental health issues.

“Untreated mental illness can lead to more serious chronic health problems that may cause instability in one’s daily life. Stigma and shame are often what keeps people from getting help, and this is what this month seeks to do, break the stigma,” said Magodzho.

He urged those suffering in silence to seek help, as Ekurhuleni’s health-care facilities offer free mental health care.
All clinics in the City render mental health services at a primary level, which entails the assessment and screening of a patient to identify the ailment.

This will be followed by a referral to the secondary mental health service.

At the secondary mental health service level, a specialist or mental health experts, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, occupational therapists or social workers, will assist the patient.

Below is a list of the health facilities in the south:

• Katlehong North clinic
• Ramokonopi community health centre
• Dresser clinic
• Vosloorus Poly clinic
• Alberton North clinic
• Phola Park clinic
• Germiston City clinic
• Zonkezizwe Two
• Eden Park clinic