Mental health, also called mental health disorders or issues, refers to a wide range of mental health conditions. These are illnesses that affect your mood, thinking and behaviour. Examples of mental illness include depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, eating disorders and addictive behaviours.

Mental health is a real health issue like diabetes or high bloods. It needs real treatment. It affects the way you feel, think and act. One in three South Africans have or will have a mental illness sometime in their life.

The South African Human Rights Commission released its report on the state of mental health in South Africa in March 2019. It found mental health grossly neglected, a huge lack of resources, a shortage of professionals and extremely poor services. Report

Understanding mental illness and having the right support and treatment is critical. Not only for the person with a mental health issue, but for their family to help and support them as well.

For help call SADAG 24hr Mental Health Helpline 0800 456 789 or sms 31393 or www.sadag.org