Talisman foundation on Mental Health day
Two residents of the Talisman Foundation shared the progress they have made under the Foundation’s care
JOHANNESBURG SOUTH – The Talisman Foundation hosted a mental health awareness event to create awareness about mental health issues on Friday July 25.
The main aim of the event was to specifically address the real issues affecting people living with mental health problems in our current context.
The event, coordinated by the charismatic volunteer master of ceremonies, Mandisa Mahlobo, was opened by one of the Talisman residents who offered a beautiful rendition of the national anthem on saxophone.
The residents of the Talisman Foundation compiled both comical and educational plays based on the challenges they face each day, which included their reality of living with various mental health disorders and the frustrations of the medical health care system.
Two residents of the Talisman Foundation shared the progress they have made under the Talisman Foundation’s care, their newfound functionality in life and their process towards reintegration into society.
The guest speaker for the day was Claudia Campbell, a counsellor and a psychology student, talking about the stigma and discrimination associated with mental health issues.
The focus of her presentation was the need for empathy, open communication between caregivers and sufferers in order to increase understanding of the challenges that mental health issues pose for both patients and caregivers.
The Talisman choir provided a powerful rendition of the struggle song “hoyarona” in true South African fashion. It was particularly moving to all present.
Placards educated the visiting community and school kids about mental health users’ rights in relation to shortcomings from the Department of Health.
