A first-of-its-kind Mental Health Museum, situated at Weskoppies Psychiatric Hospital in Tshwane, is set to raise awareness about mental health, mental illness and promotion of the rights and responsibilities of mental healthcare users.
MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko unveiled the newly established museum recently as part of the Gauteng Department of Health’s (GDoH) continued efforts to create awareness and showcase the improvement of mental health services in the province.
According to Tshepo Shawa, the spokesperson of the MEC, the museum is situated in a historical building which was built over a century ago in 1920.
“It was used for accommodating the medical superintendent who stayed on the premises. It is meant to empower the public, health workers and other stakeholders by exhibiting and showcasing historical artefacts and information from as far as 1892, through to the present day on mental health services in Gauteng,” said Shawa.
Nkomo-Ralehoko said the museum invites the public to confront misconceptions and preconceived notions about mental health.
“It provides a space for individuals, families and communities to engage with this crucial aspect of our well-being in a meaningful and informative way. Beyond its educational role, the museum serves as a symbol of hope. For those who may have felt isolated or marginalised in their struggle with mental health, it offers a reminder that they are not alone, that their experiences are part of a broader wall-hanging of humanity,” said the MEC.
The unveiling of the Mental Health Museum comes as the country concludes Mental Health Awareness Month, under the theme ‘Mental Health is a universal human right’.
In addition, the MEC added that the museum stands as a heartbreaking reminder of the historical injustices and inhumane treatment endured by those with mental disorders.
Increased resources
“It is a beacon for acknowledging the basic human rights, including universal access to mental health services. Significant progress has been made in ensuring quality mental health services and regulating treatment and rehabilitation practices. The Mental Health Care Act of 2002 (Act No 17 of 2002) played a pivotal role in this transformation.
It advocates for the care, treatment and rehabilitation of individuals living with mental and intellectual disabilities across all levels of care,” said MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko.
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Meanwhile, the department is in the process of implementing a number of interventions to increase resources for mental health, which include mental health specialised professionals and rehabilitation services in order to improve access and availability of mental health services in the province.
A number of Gauteng facilities have already been refurbished while others are undergoing refurbishment to ensure an addition of 206 acute mental health beds by the end of the 2023/24 financial year.
These hospitals include Bertha Gxowa, South Rand, Tshwane District, Thembisa, Edenvale, Dr George Mukhari and Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospitals.
Shawa said the province has 1 896 bed for people who are mentally sick.
“The department is working with other stakeholders to apply universal preventive measures that reduce the risk of mental ill-health. This includes the promotion of social inclusion policies, support and direct investment for vulnerable groups and investment in communities and young people,” said Shawa.
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