Pretoria - People struggling with mental health issues this festive season can take solace in the fact that help is available at the City of Tshwane’s five clinics offering mental health services.
MMC for Health in Tshwane Rina Marx said the holidays were supposed to be a time of celebration, but many people were suffering from high levels of stress, anxiety and depression.
“Some may have suffered loss and are grieving. Many are dealing with financial difficulties. Work pressures, physical ill health, family dynamics, loneliness, social and academic pressures are among some of the contributing factors affecting mental health,” Marx said.
She said it was important for people to prioritise their mental health and well-being.
“This may require setting boundaries with those affecting your mental health, avoiding comparing yourself to others on social media and living within your means.
“Finding a good support system within your circle of family and friends is ideal but not always possible. This period can also see increases in violence against women and children.”
Marx said professional help for mental health issues can be obtained from organisations such as the SA Depression and Anxiety Group at 0800 456 789 or 0800 567 567.
Those battling mental problems can also call HopeLine Contact Centre: 0800 467 347 or 0800 611 197; Stop Gender Violence Helpline: 0800 150 150; Gender-based Violence Command Centre: 0800 428 428; Lifeline SA: 0861 322 322; and Childline: 0800 055 555.
Marx said: “Secondary mental health services, as specialised care, is available at five municipal clinics – Hercules, Danville, Atteridgeville, Saulsville and Mamelodi West Clinic and offered by the Gauteng Department of Health: Tshwane District.
“Psychiatric nurses are available to care for patients with more severe mental health problems. Affected persons are seen by a psychiatrist and psychologist who visit the clinics monthly or per appointment.”
The remaining 19 municipal health clinics offer primary mental health services – the first contact with a person experiencing mild to moderate presentations of common mental disorders at clinic level.
“As Health MMC, I call on those going through a difficult time and who require assistance to reach out. You are not alone in this.”
Pretoria News