Join depression, anxiety support group

The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) recently launched a new free support group that will offer patients with depression, anxiety and panic attacks a place of warmth and understanding.

The first meeting will take place on January 19 at 18:30 via Zoom and the mental health support group will meet on Wednesdays, twice a month.

Research shows that support groups help people cope with and recover from a variety of problems.

They help you deal with a mental illness diagnosis in a well-adjusted way. They also provide information on the illness and ways to treat and manage it, as well as help give patients and loved ones time to adjust.

“The benefits of joining a support group is to have that sense of belonging and understanding from those who go through similar circumstances as what you do. To feel validated and understood,” said Amber-Leigh Schoeman, a support group leader.

Guest speakers and experts in the field of psychology will at times be giving talks to the group. Groups discuss effective ways of managing symptoms, self-help tips and how to help a loved one with mental health or substance abuse issues.

To attend this free mental health support group, contact Schoeman on 079 648 5957.

For more information on Sadag Support Groups Call: Sadag on 0800 12 13 or send an SMS to 31393.

This group is one of many run by Sadag – an NPO striving to educate patients, families, professionals and the general public on the nature and management of mental illnesses and substance abuse.

The NPO also aims to eliminate the discrimination and stigma that surround mental illness, as well as to increase access to high-quality care for all South Africans. Sadag support groups are run either by members who have recovered from one of these disorders or by professionals in the community.

These groups allow members the opportunity to form connections with others experiencing similar troubles and to learn from one another in a non-judgemental, confidential atmosphere. For more information, video clips, as well as local and international articles or to download brochures please visit www.sadag.org

Benefits of support groups
• They provide a place of stability and security, a place in which you can feel respected, nurtured and cared for.
• It’s the first place you can go where everyone understands and no one judges.
• There’s a code of confidentiality within the group and each member’s privacy and dignity are respected.
• A group offers hope by allowing you to be around those who have recovered. When you’re in a terrible place, it’s a wonderful experience to get a visit from a caring group member who is calling just to see how you’re doing. It’s equally gratifying to visit someone in distress and be able to help them.
• Knowing that someone else truly understands by virtue of having ‘been there’ themselves brings a sense of relief – you are no longer alone. Everyone is given the freedom to draw on the strength of the group as needed and to extend strength to others when possible.
• Through group discussions, a great deal of information and education is gained. It helps to share coping tips and methods that haven’t only come from books.
• By being with others who share your symptoms, you realise you’re not alone; there’s an immediate feeling of acceptance and belonging. Being with others who are experiencing the same illness as you, and are successfully getting on with life despite their problems can be the best encouragement of all.

Also Read: Sadag launches support group for panic and anxiety

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