The multidisciplinary team of the Sterkfontein Psychiatric Hospital, which also deals with patients from the Merafong City Local Municipality, hosted a Women’s Day celebration for female patients on August 15..

According to the hospital’s communication officer, Nozipho Tshazwa, the event is part of continued efforts to enhance the patient experience and promote a supportive and dignified environment for mental healthcare users.

For the past five years, the multidisciplinary team has successfully hosted similar events for female patients. The events aim to recognise and honour women in the hospital’s care while promoting dignity, self-worth and empowerment.

The initiative also seeks to ensure that patients feel valued, supported and encouraged as they continue their recovery journeys.

The day was filled with joy and excitement as patients and healthcare professionals came together to celebrate. Patients had an opportunity to sing, dance and participate in various activities designed to create a positive and uplifting atmosphere.

Encouraging patients

Speaking on behalf of the multidisciplinary team, the Operational Manager for the female ward, Ms Nobuhle Makaula, encouraged patients not to give up on their recovery journeys and to remember the strength and courage demonstrated by the women of 1956.

“As we celebrate Women’s Month, we want to remind you that you are not forgotten. We appreciate your resilience and courage throughout your journey of healing,” said Makaula.

Key messages

The event highlighted several important messages:

• Encouraging hope and adherence to treatment: Staying committed to treatment, medication, therapy and follow-up care can support a healthier and more fulfilling life.
• Promoting dignity and recovery for mental healthcare users: Every mental healthcare user deserves to be treated with dignity, respect and understanding.
• Celebrating Women’s Month and the resilience of female patients: Women’s Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the strength, courage and resilience of women facing mental health challenges.
• Supporting holistic, patient-centred care: Families, caregivers, healthcare professionals and communities all have an important role to play in creating supportive recovery environments.

Supporting patient care

Through initiatives such as this, Sterkfontein Psychiatric Hospital continues to promote holistic patient care by creating opportunities that support patients’ emotional well-being, dignity and recovery while fostering a caring and inclusive healthcare environment.