Covid-19 support group to be launched in city

THE SA Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) will launch a Covid-19 support group on April 28 at the Galeshewe SMME Village in Chala Street, at 4.30pm.

Sadag provincial co-ordinator Mpho Moshewu said yesterday that the support group would meet on a fortnightly basis to provide support for patients, survivors, families and friends.

“Qualified therapists, counsellors and psychologists will be able to assist and everyone is welcome to join,” said Moshewu.

“There is very little help for mental wellness for people affected by the trauma brought about by the pandemic, including for front-line workers, patients who find themselves isolated and those who have lost loved ones to the pandemic.

“If the need arises, we will look for more venues in town such as public libraries for more support groups.

“We will also provide counselling for rape victims, anyone subjected to bullying, single and child headed households and those with substance abuse dependencies and persons suffering from depression and bipolar disorders. We will also offer youth support programmes as well as training on how to look out for suicidal tendencies.”

Moshewu added that Covid-19 survivors would address support groups on recovery tips and coping mechanisms.

“There is still a stigma attached to the virus, where people are afraid of disclosing their symptoms and status. Patients find themselves isolated and are left in hospitals to die alone and no assistance is provided to bereaved families or those who continue to suffer the long-term effects of the disease. A high incidence of depression has been linked to the disease.”

Moshewu said that they wanted to form partnerships with the Department of Health and religious sectors to champion emotional wellness.

“Communities need to become ambassadors of mental health.”

The Sadag hotline is 0800 56 75 67 or 0800 21 22 23.