Nozipho Dlamini
Over the past couple of years, mental health awareness has increased, making people aware of various mental health disorders and how to be sensitive to people who suffer from such disorders.
As a result, many people have started to become aware of their own mental health and have taken measures to ensure that they keep their mental state in a healthy space.
As Mental Health Awareness Month draws to a close, it is important to understand mental health and mental illness to foster a compassionate and informed society.
By promoting open discussions and supporting individuals who need help, we can collectively strive for better mental health and well-being.
To ensure that the Life Esidimeni tragedy never happens again, the Gauteng government has increased its focus on issues of mental health. It has also enhanced access to healthcare services for those in need of mental healthcare in the province.
In April 2023, the national Department of Health launched the National Mental Health Policy Framework and Strategic Plan 2023–2030.
The primary objective of the policy is to address all mental health conditions and highlight the social determinants of mental health, which cut across the roles and responsibilities of other government departments and other related stakeholders.
Its purpose is to guide national and provincial governments in the promotion of mental health, prevention, care, treatment and rehabilitation of those with mental health problems.
In May, as part of commitments to improve healthcare services, the Gauteng Department of Health unveiled three newly refurbished facilities with dedicated mental health services.
These include the 60-bed mental health unit at Bertha Gxowa Hospital, a 20-bed mental health ward at Helen Joseph Hospital, and the specialised mental health day clinic at Kopanong Gateway.
The clinic offers a basket of free services for mental health patients, ranging from counselling, social work services, dual diagnosis services (serious mental illness and substance use disorders), as well as psychotherapy.
The Bertha Gxowa facility provides a range of services, from voluntary admission, assisted care, emergency mental health services, 72-hour assessment of involuntary mental health patients and further care, treatment and rehabilitation.
The establishment of these units is an important part of the government’s efforts to improve mental health services and represents a critical move in reaffirming the rights of patients.
Several interventions are being implemented by the government to increase resources, such as employing more specialised professionals and refurbishment of infrastructure to improve access and availability of services in Gauteng.
In addition, the provincial government has significantly increased the number of mental health specialists and personnel across its districts, with about 300 recruits so far.
Regarding support for those in need of mental healthcare, acknowledging the problem is the first step. Recognising when one is unwell can be challenging, as the borders between mental health and mental disorders can be vague.
Warning signs may include persistent distress and impaired functioning in crucial areas of life. Seeking professional help and support from loved ones is crucial in such situations.
If diagnosed with a mental health illness, it is essential to take responsibility and work closely with professionals. To manage mental disorders effectively, it is important to comply with prescribed medication and psychotherapy, regular follow-ups and proactive self-care.
Seek help from a general practitioner or mental health professionals, such as counsellors, social workers, occupational therapists, psychologists or psychiatrists, to receive appropriate care. Additionally, support groups can provide valuable resources and understanding.
Despite the progress in reducing the stigma associated with mental illnesses, it still exists.
Making inappropriate comments or negative stereotypes towards those with mental illnesses is discrimination and can lead to harmful thoughts or actions and can also deter people from seeking help.
You can help challenge the stigma by speaking up when you hear people around you make negative or wrong comments about mental illness.
Help is at hand and anyone can access mental health services through the South African Depression and Anxiety Group, which has a number of 24-hour toll-free emergency numbers, including the suicide crisis helpline, 0800 567 567, and Cipla Mental Health Helpline, 0800 456 789.
• Dlamini is a communicator in the Gauteng office of the premier
