LIMPOPO – The Department of Health hosted a Mental Health Awareness Day at the Phadziri bus depot in Madombidzha on September 27, where nurses from clinics in the Sinthumule and Kutama areas were urged to treat patients who suffer from mental illness with dignity and the utmost care, despite the shortage of medication at some of the clinics.
The event was sponsored by the Phadziri bus depot.
Addressing guests, Chief Peter Kutama said communities who live with mentally ill people must care for them as they are also human beings.
“We are hosting this kind of event because we want to show mentally challenged people that we love and accept them in our houses and in our communities.
“In the past, mentally ill patients were locked away inside their houses while the rest got to enjoy themselves outside. Do not push these people away. We should be sending them to schools where they can get an education,” said Kutama.
Richard Hlungwane, Vhembe’s health promotion coordinator, said his department had heard of many cases where the grants for mentally ill patients were not being used for the purposes of taking care of their physical and emotional needs.
“People take those grants and buy clothes and groceries for themselves, which they do not share with those who need it most.
“The result is that the true beneficiary walks around almost naked, barefoot, dirty and hungry, without a proper place to sleep.”
Hlungwane said the department would cooperate with traditional leaders to provide treatment for mentally ill patients.
