Dr Mpho Phalatse, MMC for Health and Social Development writes:
The festive season is upon us yet again and though it is supposed to be a time to unwind, take stock, plan and recharge before the start of the New Year, it has often been associated with risky behaviour leading to social ills, ill health and even tragic loss of life.
The City’s Health and Social Development Departments will continue to provide services throughout the holiday season, with 16 of our clinics operating for extended hours including after hours, weekends and public holidays. Our Substance Abuse Treatment Centres will also be operational, offering support to people using harmful substances as well as their loved ones.
We are committed to your well-being and to serving you with pride, and we hope that you will partner with us in taking good care of yourselves by making responsible choices, and reaching out when you or your loved ones need help.
Some of these points include:
- Avoid dangerous situations that could compromise your personal safety
- Drink responsibly to avoid unnecessary incidents
- Do not drink and drive/walk
- Collect condoms from any of our clinic facilities to avoid having unprotected sex
- Take good care of minors, mental health patients and senior citizens entrusted to your care
- Report any cases of abuse so we can intervene
- Contact our toll-free Ithemba Crisis Line on 0800 223 217 for substance abuse-related counselling for you or your loved ones
- And if unwell, seek medical attention without delay.
Johannesburg would never be the same without you. Let us see you safe and sound in 2019 so we can continue to build our lives and our beautiful city for our sakes and for generations to come. Have yourselves a responsible, safe and Merry Christmas and for the year 2019 to be filled with opportunities.
