Sadag puts spotlight on mental health with wellness workshops

The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) is once again putting the spotlight on mental health with a host of activities this week in commemoration of World Mental Health Day.

This commemoration comes shortly after the shocking deaths of 36 mental health patients while in the care of non-governmental organisations following the cancellation of a contract with Life Healthcare Esidimeni.

The organisation is gearing up to commemorate the day, which took place on 10 October, by taking part in a host of activities during the week, including a wellness day event at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, under the theme Psychological First Aid.

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Cassey Chambers, operations director for Sadag, explained that this year’s theme was aimed at covering both the psychological and social support aspects of mental health. “No mental health care system should be about psychological support alone; immediately after a crisis, the first-line responders are often family, neighbours, teachers or community members and often people not trained to provide long-term assistance.

“Psychological first aid is about providing practical, humane support and assistance; addressing basic and immediate needs; comforting people and listening; and helping people connect to information, services and social support.”

Adding to this was Dr Mike West, a psychiatrist from the Akeso Milnerton Clinic, who stressed the need to raise awareness on mental health, especially among young people who are becoming increasingly affected by psychological and psychiatric conditions. He also praised the efforts of public figures and celebrities in raising awareness and putting the spotlight on the issue.

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Meanwhile, Sadag will take part in various training and wellness talks and workshops throughout the week including a Life Healthcare Training College mental health presentation with staff members at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, as well as the Rotary health day launch, and wellness day at the University of Pretoria.

Chambers concluded by inviting those unable to join Sadag in person at one of the venues, but interested in engaging with the experts on the issue, to take part in the organisation’s Facebook Friday chat for World Mental Health Day on 14 October from 1pm to 2pm, and again from 7pm to 8pm.

Details: www.sadag.org