The month of July is nationally recognised as Psychiatric Disability Awareness month where the South African Federation for Mental Health (SAFMH) focuses on the importance of this health concern.
Today’s youth is the future but with Mental Illness on the increase among young people that very future is under threat.
Suicide is increasingly being reported among younger people owing to:
• Loss of social cohesion
• Breakdown of traditional family structure
• Growing economic instability
• Unemployment
• Rising prevalence of depressive disorders
• School-related pressures
According to SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group):
• There are 23 completed suicides every day
There are 230 attempted suicides every day
• 9.5 percent of all teen deaths are attributed to suicide
• The youngest suicide victim was 7-years-old
The SAFMH in a statement said, “As a nation, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that the young people of this country are equipped to deal with the pressures of daily living. The SAFMH will focus on the importance of Mental Health – specifically in our youth.
Pupils in high school across the country will receive trendy, user-friendly educational cards related to Mental Health and illness. They need to be aware of Mental Health issues, know of support options available, and recognise that having a Mental Illness can be managed through effective health care and support.
“Discrimination and the stigma attached to Mental Health ia an on-going challenge. Parents will also be encouraged to talk openly to their children and spouses about Mental Health and well-being. It is vital that we understand that Mental Illness is nothing to be ashamed of.
There is always hope. The earlier it is diagnosed and treated, the better one’s chances of recovering and living a full and normal life.”
Some of the mental disorders are:
• Adult and childhood disorders
• Personality disorders
• Feeding and Eating disorders
• Sexual and Paraphillic disorders
• Sleep and wake disorders
