Support groups help mentally ill

According to operations director Cassey Chambers, mental health care is still neglected in South Africa and many communities have no access at all to facilities.

The depression and anxiety group was founded in 1994 by Zane Wilson, who used her telephone line and a couple of volunteer counsellors. The organisation has since grown into a 15-line call centre, with more than 100 volunteers, 180 support groups nationwide, and over 60 000 hits a month on their website.

“Support groups are generally run for patients by patients, and they create a collective wisdom and strength, and really help each other through the tough times,” said Chambers.

However, she explained that any diagnosis of mental illness is fraught with difficulty.

“Patient education and support, and educating patients about the importance of complying with prescribed medication, are challenges that have long-term medical and financial consequences,” said Chambers.

“It is still misunderstood, stigmatised and feared and it’s hard for sufferers and their loved ones to discuss it [mental illness] or get support – even from close friends and family members. Fear, shame, and even guilt keep many people suffering in silence. Sufferers and loved ones often keep things bottled up and do not ask for, or get support,” she added.

Some patients do not have a family network, so a support group is available for those who need it. The group meets regularly and members have committed to helping each other and themselves to achieve their goals through sharing experiences and advice.

“Slowly the work that people in the mental health field do is coming forward and mental health is being recognised as a critical part of overall wellness,” added Wilson.

Details: Mental health line 011 262 6396 or www.sadag.org