Mental Health: How much support do you get from your immediate circle?
Stacey and J Sbu are checking in on how everyone's doing...
How is your circle of people influencing your mental health?
A recent study shows that South Africa has one of the world's worst mental health scores.
With limited access to affordable public healthcare paired with stigma surrounding seeing a psychiatrist, many South Africans rely on friends or family for support.
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This report surveyed close to 12 000 South Africans, comparing them to 223 087 people across the globe and proves how SAFFAS are distressed now more than ever before...
News 24 reports that several factors can account for this drop in a positive mental health state.
Some of the factors include: drive and motivation, mood and outlook, cognition and social self, and the mind-body connection. The researchers also recorded information on demographics, lifestyle factors, traumas, and adversities to evaluate the key drivers of risks.
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Having a solid group of people to surround yourself with can have a positive impact.
Here are some tips when it comes to leaning on people for support:
- Do not be deterred by the stigma
- Recognising your difficulty is the first step
- Write down your thoughts
- Reach out to people closest to you
- Set a designated time to talk about your struggle
- Seek counselling and professional help.
Seeking help
It is important to seek help before suffering from other health conditions brought on by stress.
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group has a 24-hour helpline which you can contact on 0800 456 789.
The South African government encourages that if you suspect a mental illness, visit your nearest clinic or doctor.
Remember, mental illness can be treated and prevented!
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