WATCH: South Rand Hospital tackles mental health issues
South Rand Hospital mental health workers tackle the challenges the community face with mental health
The month of October has been declared Mental Health Awareness Month with the objective of not only educating the public about mental health but also reducing the stigma and discrimination that people with mental illness are often subjected to.
South Rand Hospital held a mental awareness day on October 5 with the theme “Making mental health and well-being for all a global priority”.
Spiritual leaders from the Islam, ZCC, traditional healers and pastors were invited to take questions regarding mental health issues and how they handle people who are suffering from mental health.
Acting CEO Dr EM Letwaba said: “Mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse and job stress are common, affecting individuals, their families and co-workers, and the broader community.
In addition, they have a direct impact on workplaces through increased absenteeism, reduced productivity and increased costs. Very few South Africans seek treatment for their mental disorders. Mental illness can be treated at your nearest clinic, hospital or healthcare provider.
“One in four people will suffer from a mental health problem at some point in their life. We should not be afraid to talk about it,” said Dr Letwaba.
A traditional healer on the panel, Gogo Faith, said: “The main issues facing people with mental illness are discrimination and stigma due to the general lack of insight into mental health-related issues. People with mental health problems face poverty, homelessness and unemployment due to discrimination in the workplace.”
A question was asked by one of the guests regarding suicide and how can one see that their loved one is suffering from suicidal tendencies.
Xoliswa Sekgala answered the question by saying: “Suicide prevention describes that some of the warning signs of suicide to look for in an individual are: talking about wanting to die, talking about feeling trapped or wanting to escape, showing anger or irritability, becoming isolated and withdrawn, feelings of being a burden to others and no interest in favourite things.
If you see or feel any of these tendencies, you must seek help as soon as possible.”
Gogo Faith said: “It’s important for caregivers, friends and loved ones to understand the impact that mental health has on daily life. Mental Health Awareness Month provides education about the reality of living with a mental health condition, while it can make life more difficult, it doesn’t have to stop someone from having a fulfilling life. When people are better educated on these conditions, they can better support and help someone dealing with a mental health issue.”
One of the caregivers said the community needs to understand how to treat people with mental health because some of the things they do are not deliberate. “They are not crazy, they only need their medication and everything will be alright,” said Khumalo.
Also present was Sibongile Makhubu (OC), who was the programme director for the day and assured the caregivers that they will engage other stakeholders including SAPS, SANCA and Sassa to help with mental health issues.
