Thembisa community steps up for mental health with 10km awareness walk
Hands On Mental Health hosted its first major initiative aimed to raise awareness during Mental Health Month.
Hands On Mental Health organised a 10km walk from Emoyeni Section to Evergreens in Thembisa on May 10, to mark Mental Health Awareness Month.
The event aimed to encourage the community to prepare and care for their minds, helping to prevent mental breakdowns and other related issues.
Operating for three years, the foundation focuses on supporting the community’s mental and physical health.
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This walk was their first major initiative to promote mental wellness, organised with the help of Earthling Emily and Premium Purified Water.
Residents joined the walk, which was completed in three hours, a clear sign of the community’s commitment to mental health, though they noted ongoing guidance is needed.
Thembinkosi Radebe, founder of Hands On Mental Health, explained the importance of mental health systems.
“Many factors influence mental health in townships. Often, we inherit mental health struggles from our backgrounds, experiencing trauma within families and communities that shape how we live. The environment, hygiene, and daily circumstances all play a role.”
Radebe added that the foundation provides ongoing rehabilitation, particularly for those released from prison without adequate support.
“Our work includes assisting people to find job opportunities and running a book club to inspire a culture of reading. Our goal is to keep minds healthy and stable despite the challenges many face daily.”
The walk is a vital step in engaging the community around mental health, especially in an area like Thembisa, where unemployment, crime, gender-based violence, and substance abuse remain pressing concerns.
