More talks needed to destigmatise mental illness: SADAG
The South Africa Depression and Anxiety Group has encouraged dialogue around mental illness in an effort to dispel stereotypes, as the country observes Mental Health Awareness Month.
Spokesperson, Cassey Chambers says one in every three South Africans suffer from some sort of mental illness but only 25% have access to treatment.
She says dispelling stereotypes could see more South Africans being treated instead of hiding away.
"What we're hoping to achieve during July is to encourage more people to talk about it. We have an online campaign called 'Did You Know' and we're trying to give facts, information, referrals and suggestions to get more South Africans talking about mental health.
"There's so much stigma around mental illness. People think it happens to other people - that they're dangerous and should be locked away. That's not the case," she said.
July is Mental Health Awareness Month in SA! Share our DID YOU KNOW? daily #MHFacts to fight stigma through education #MentalHealthMatters pic.twitter.com/2U2B2Pjc5m
— SADAG (@TheSADAG) July 1, 2017