The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) has launched a new free support group for patients with depression, anxiety and bipolar and panic attacks.
The first meeting will be held on January 19 via Zoom. The group strives 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,” said Amber-Leigh Schoeman, a support group leader.
Sadag has provided a list of benefits from attending the 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.
Details: To attend this free Mental Health Support Group contact Amber-Leigh on 079 648 5957. For more information on Sadag Support Groups Call: The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) on 0800 12 13 or send an SMS to 31393.
