Tie a green ribbon on the LALT gate to show support for sufferers of mental health issues

Live Arts Little Theatre (LALT) is creating awareness about mental health issues by inviting the public to tie green ribbons around the gate of the theatre house.

Louw Breytenbach, owner of the theatre house, said: “As a sufferer of depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the subject is close to my heart and I wanted to show people, especially during the lockdown, that they are not alone.”

He explained there are just over 200 ribbons tied to the gate so far and the colour green is associated with mental illness.

“It’s the Gate of Hope. Each ribbon represents someone who struggles with mental illness. We also have a prayer request box as well as the numbers of professional licenced counsellors for people who feel that they need emotional support during this time.

“We hope to decorate the gate every June and July annually, with more gates to pop up around town. Anyone can join the cause. It really is just about awareness and showing others that there is always someone who is willing to listen and who cares.”

He highlighted that those who wish to dedicate a ribbon, but are not able to make their way to the Gate of Hope, can email liveartstheatre@gmail.com and LALT will gladly tie a ribbon on their behalf.

Louw’s new documentary, The Louw-Down, which also addresses mental health issues, is also currently available for streaming on howler.co.za/thelouwdown.

The Louw-Down offers insight, advice and biographies of three people who share their stories of loss, hope and recovery.

Tickets are R45 each and a portion of proceeds will go to mental health institutions.

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“We’re currently working with registered the NPO Outreach Unlimited, and we’re also in talks with various religious organisations to fund the start-up of mental health support programmes that will be free of charge for the local community,” Louw explained.

What is Louw’s advice to people suffering from depression and anxiety due to the negative effects of the lockdown?

“It is very important to keep some form of routine during these uncertain stages. By getting up and showing up, we prove to others, and most importantly to ourselves that we can survive anything that comes our way. It is important to also monitor the foods you eat and maintain a healthy diet and home exercise programme. Soothing music, walks outside and even a hot cup of tea with lemon can ease anxiety.

“It is very important to surround yourself with people, although social distancing is required by law, you must reach out to others via video call or text message. Support during this time is needed in every form,” he explained.

He further urged community members to call the South African Depression and Anxiety Group if they are in need of urgent support.

Their 24-hour helpline is 0800 456 789 and the suicide emergency number is 0800 567 567.

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