‘Your Mind Matters’ campaign brought to Thembisa
The campaign welcomed participants from various backgrounds, including people living with mental illness and intellectual disabilities.
The Central Gauteng Mental Health Society hosted a mental health awareness campaign titled ‘Your Mind Matters’ on July 24 at the Thembisa Self-Help Association for the Disabled (TSHAD).
The event aimed to raise awareness of mental health challenges, promote emotional well-being, and connect community members with vital resources.
The campaign welcomed participants from various backgrounds, including people living with mental illness and intellectual disabilities, as well as parents, educators, and professionals.
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The day featured guest speakers, interactive discussions, and the distribution of educational materials.
David Kgatle, a social worker from the Central Gauteng Mental Health Society, explained the importance of the campaign and its reach across the City of Ekurhuleni.
“We are moving around the city to educate and raise awareness of the importance of taking care of your mental health.
“This month, in celebration of Psychosocial Disability Month, we are visiting various communities to tackle stigma and bring these issues to the forefront,” he said.
Kgatle added that addressing mental health helps uncover underlying issues, such as abuse, that are often hidden or overlooked.
“We must talk about mental health. We are ready to fight the stigma and promote awareness.”
TSHAD centre manager Brian Gazani Ndlovu elaborated on the campaign’s impact.
“My role is to care for both the centre and the people who use it, and today’s programme is significant because it highlights the daily challenges of individuals with mental health conditions,” he said.
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Ndlovu noted that many families struggle to cope, sometimes leading to harmful behaviour.
“Some parents are mistreating people with disabilities, punishing them by withholding food or taking their money. These are things we need to talk about so we can build a more inclusive and understanding community.”
He added that educating families and promoting a positive mindset are key to reversing stigma and supporting people living with disabilities.
The campaign created a safe space for open conversation, and community members engaged actively with organisers, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of mental health in the Thembisa community.
