::Welcome to the website of SA Federation for Mental Health ::

GENERAL INFORMATION

One of the largest challenges facing the mental health movement is awareness about services. This is critical in terms of accessibility to treatment facilities and also the prevalence of misconceptions and the isolation of persons with intellectual or psychiatric disability.

The purpose of creating awareness about mental well-being is to dispel the myths and stigma attached to these disabilities.

The programme intends utilizing the media as well as developing various communication materials which are distributed within the communities. Currently, three mental health campaigns are conducted each year. They are:

Intellectual Disability Awareness during the month of March;
Psychiatric Disability Awareness during the month of July; and
Mental well-being / health promotion and awareness during the month of October, with October 10th being celebrated as World Mental Health Day.

The promotion of mental well-being is equally important and the focus is on prevention rather than cure through the promotion of healthy lifestyles and other relevant issues.

PROJECTS

1. Psychiatric Disability (Mental Illness) Awareness Month: July 2010

THEME: MENTAL HEALTH IN HIV & AIDS PROGRAMS, THE NEED TO INTEGRATE”

CAMPAIGN GUIDELINES:

Persons with HIV are more vulnerable to mental illnesses

Promotions and Awareness Campaigns= Reduction of new HIV infections

Creation of greater understanding of the mental health issues related to HIV& AIDS.

Understanding that persons with mental illness are also vulnerable to HIV infection (Reducing Risk)

For persons with mental illness to understand HIV/ Aids & how it impacts on them

Creating greater understanding the effects of and adherence to medication for both mental illness & HIV& Aids

Greater collaboration to form a network of HIV& Aids and Mental Health Organizations.

Highlighting the importance of support and acceptance by families, caregivers and communities.

Outcomes:

Profile of Mental Health in HIV& Aids Programs is raised

Increased adherence to treatment will improve the physical and mental well- being of the targeted groups

Increased access to Mental Health Services for all in SA.

For more information, please contact Lindiwe Shayi on 011 781 1852 or e-mail lindiwe@safmh.org or download the following documents;