PUTTING PERSONS WITH MENTAL DISABILITY FIRST
NATIONAL AWARENESS CAMPAIGNS
Mental health remains one of the most neglected aspects of health care, making this a priority advocacy issue. The need to address stigma and discrimination was also highlighted as necessary to break down the barriers preventing people from seeking the care and support they need.
Each year, together with the South African Federation for Mental Health and other Mental Health Organisations across all provinces, IMH embarks on a variety of awareness activities to highlight mental health issues in South Africa and the Metro in particular. This year our awareness programmes centred around the use of media to help spread our message to as many persons in our communities as possible.
You are not your illness. You have an individual story to tell. You have a name, a history, a personality, an experience to share.” – Julian Seifter
MARCH 2023 | INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY AWARENESS
I AM NOT MY DISABILITY
SEE MY ABILITY
The team facilitated a training session and dialogue in Joe Slovo for 23 educators and caregivers – the programme centered on unpacking intellectual disability and showcasing abilities.
OCTOBER 2023 | MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS
MENTAL HEALTH IS A UNIVERSAL HUMAN RIGHT
The team visited 4 shopping malls and engaged with 225 persons – sharing brochures and promoting positive mental health and wellness.
JULY 2023 | PSYCHOSOCIAL DISABILITY AWARENESS
SHATTERING STIGMA:
SPARKING CONVERSATIONS AND SHIFTING ATTITUDES
The team engaged in a dialogue session at the community centre in West End with 30 community members – looking at how they can make a difference – SAPS, DOH and Kirkwood Care Centre participated.
Learning Partners shared their journey on IFM with a listenership of 90 000.