Free support group for loved ones of children with mental health conditions

South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is excited to be launching a new free support group for loved ones and caregivers of children with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other mental health conditions at 10:30 on March 20 via Zoom.

The support group will be offering a place of warmth, understanding and support on Sundays, twice a month.

“Research shows that support groups help people cope with and recover from a wide variety of problems,” said the support group leader, Illana Cook.

“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 to give patients and loved ones a time to adjust.

“As a parent of a child who struggles with mental health issues, I have realised that it can be a very lonely place.

We focus on the child through therapy, medication, extra love and affection, but no one ever looks after the parents,” she said.

She said the purpose of these support groups is for parents and caregivers of children with mental health issues and learning disabilities to support and lean on each other.

She said guest speakers and experts in the field of psychology will at times be giving talks to the group.

Discussions will focus on ways of managing symptoms, self-help tips and how to help a loved one with mental health or substance abuse issues.

This group is one of many run by SADAG, which is 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-judgmental, confidential atmosphere.

Benefits of support groups include:
• They provide a place of stability and security, a place in which you can feel respected, nurtured and cared for.
• It is 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 realize 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.”

To attend this group contact llana on 083 392 0458 or visit www.sadag.org or call SADAG on 080 021 2223 or send an SMS to 31393.

Also Read: Join Sadag support group

Also Read: Sadag partners with Miss SA to tackle mental health issues