There is help for depression

The prevalence of mental illness, in particular depression that could lead to suicide, has become heightened in our society.

The recent death of Robin Williams, the American comedian and actor, has brought forward the importance of knowing more about the facts and avenues available to help treat mental illness.

The World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that approximately one million people worldwide die by suicide each year.

This works out to one death by suicide every 40 seconds.

In numerous cases, suicidal tendencies are not reported due to the risk of stigma in social standings and religious boundaries.

According to WHO, suicide is a multi-determined phenomenon that occurs against a background of complex interacting biological, social, psychological and environmental risk and protective factors.

Despite the complexity of this phenomenon, suicide can be prevented.

There are groups around South Africa that offer solace to sufferers of mental illness.

Crescent Clinic in Randburg has a programmed called Young Adults Programme (YAP).

YAP offers adolescents, their care givers or parents the tools to cope with the numerous issues that arise with being a teenager.

The multidisciplinary team uses an ecosystemic approach in treating adolescents.

Essentially, this model focuses on the individual in the context of all their various environments for example, their family, school or friends.

South Africa Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) has one suicide crisis helpline if those who need help for any mental health issues such as depression, stress, substance abuse, suicide, anxiety, trauma, panic or bipolar.

The South African Federation of Mental Health also offers help in any area near you.

Details: SADAG on 080 070 8090, 080 056 7567, sms 31393; SA Federation for Mental Health , www.safmh.org or info@safmh.org or

011 781 1852; Crescent Clinic www.crescentclinic.co.za or 011 792 9400 (ext 621).