Mental health awareness gets the spotlight
Those who attended were made aware of the myths and realities of mental illness.
Brakpan SAPS and various stakeholders gathered on October 25 at the police station boardroom for a session to promote awareness, motivation, encouragement, guidance, revival, and support.
Sector 1 manager and communications officer Constable Audrey Buthelezi organised the event with the SAPS employee health and wellness (EHW) team to commemorate Mental Health Month, with the colour green as the theme.
SAPS Brakpan office and operational employees attended, Brakpan court senior magistrate Pulane Maredi, AfriForum chairperson Chris Hattingh, CPF Sector 1 chairperson Simon Mabuse and his deputy chairperson Olga Joubert.
The audience listened to a presentation on mental health, including what mental health is, symptoms of mental illness, mental health stigmatisation and myths, ways to cope with mental illness, available services and ways to prevent mental illness.
There was a candle-lighting devotion ceremony in remembrance and support of those affected by mental illness and for awareness of the importance of mental health.
“Nationally, there is a challenge of only 30% of people affected by mental health issues receiving treatment, leaving 70% without treatment,” explained Buthelezi.
“This requires communities to intensify efforts to improve access to mental health services. Mental illness can affect anyone, and the police and other law enforcement employees are not immune.”
Although most people are resilient, people exposed to adverse circumstances, including poverty, violence, disability, and inequality, are more at high risk.
Research has shown women are three times more likely than men to experience common mental health problems, while men are more likely to commit suicide because of the stigma around seeking support.
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