Exam stress, teen depression programme

The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) will be airing a mental health programme to help heal exam stress and teen depression among others issues.

The programme called Share will launch on 11 December at 4pm on the DSTV’s Ed Programme. It will feature expert panelists discussing and giving guidance on suicide, anxiety, substance abuse, exam stress, teen depression, bullying, festive season blues, self-mutilation, coping with peer pressure and other issues. Its main target is youths and parents, one in three of whom are said to experience these issues on a daily basis.

According to Meryl Da Costa of Sadag, it is important to share these topics and to learn how to identify someone battling with depression, or struggling with an addiction, or is a victim of abuse or bullying. “The show will help the affected access treatment, learn necessary coping tools, support and resources available to help them deal with day-to-day stresses.”

The pre-recorded programme will air every Thursday with the first one focusing on dealing with substance abuse over the festive season.

The others December shows will be on 18th December focusing on Coping with stressors of the festive season; and 25th December focusing on How to find joy during the holidays even when it is stressful.

Anchor person Hannah Viviers of Sadag will lead the programme that will reach many young people through a medium that has a huge viewership. “August 2014 statistics indicate a viewership of 4 million people in South Africa and more in over 49 other countries across Africa. “We have an important responsibility in our hands and each episode led by top experts will share information and helpful resources which are easily accessible to all locally and elsewhere,” said Da Costa.

Sadag’s Toll-Free Helpline 0800 20 50 26 will also be displayed during the shows for everyone to contact them for help, information, self-help tips, support and referrals.