MEC Sasekani Manzini addressing members of the community that attended
By Kopano Dibakwane
The community of Bethal, in Govan Mbeki Local Municipality, could not be discouraged by freezing weather conditions from attending a World Mental Health Awareness Day event held at Emzinoni Community Hall, on Tuesday 31 October, led by Mpumalanga MEC for Health Sasekani Manzini.
The event was reportedly aimed at addressing the discrimination, stigma, severe treatment and human rights violations endured by people living with mental conditions.
The department revealed, in a statement, that people with mental health conditions die prematurely, as much as two decades early, due to preventable physical conditions. It further highlighted that there has been an increasing acknowledgement of the important role played by mental health in achieving global development goals, as illustrated by its inclusion in the Sustainable Development Goals.
In her keynote address, Manzini said that healthcare facilities across the province are able to treat many mental health conditions.
” Access to Mental Health Care is crucial to help many individuals to receive the support required to address their illnesses. People with symptoms need to be diagnosed by our health professionals in our facilities and get treatment.
” The department will continue with campaigns of creating public awareness to increase mental health understanding and reduce stigma. Let’s not discriminate against people because of their health condition,” said MEC Manzini.
Other dignitaries who were present at the event included; representatives from local and district municipalities, mental health review board and Bethal hospital board.
