On 10 July, the designated Panic Awareness Day, Sadag will be holding free panic and anxiety community talks with experts in Sandton, Soweto, Pretoria, Durban, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town that will continue through that week. This is a way for people who cannot easily access help, to get free advice and give them the opportunity to start taking steps to better mental health.
The group says mental illness is on the increase and interventions are needed.
To address this problem, to create awareness and discuss panic and anxiety, the Sandton support group will be having a free talk on 15 July at 6pm at the Rosebank Union Church, 47 Hamilton Road.
Sadag was formed 20 years ago by founder Zane Wilson after panic attacks ultimately resulted in suicidal feelings due to no appropriate treatment. When she finally got the right treatment she recovered within four weeks and was encouraged to start a small support group.
From the very first meeting held at the Sandton Library with over 60 people attending, little by little help lines were added,as well as support groups, brochures, talks by experts and professional board members. The group has grown to great heights and is now the most influential mental health NGO in Africa, with a 15-line counselling call centre, a comprehensive website, outreach programmes, and a newsletter that reaches more than 20 000 people.
There are a variety of symptoms of panic attacks, with abrupt episodes of fear. Some of the most common are a need to escape, heart palpitations, lightheadedness, dizziness, sweating, wet palms, trembling, shortness of breath, fear of losing control or dying, fear of driving, of eating in restaurants or getting into elevators. However some symptoms are similar to real illnesses and should be checked by their doctor.
For tips on dealing with anxiety, click here.
