Citation

Meyer JC, Matlala M, Chigome A. S. Afr. Fam. Pract. (2004) 2019; 61(5): 25-30.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.4102/safp.v61i5.4946

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Mental health is an integral part of health and it includes an individual's emotional, psychological and social well-being. Mental illness remains underreported and underdiagnosed, particularly in low-and middle-income countries, including South Africa. South Africa carries a huge burden of mental illnesses with the most prevalent being anxiety disorders, substance abuse disorders, mood disorders and depression. People with mental health conditions often face neglect in the health system as well as stigma and discrimination. This has resulted in poor health outcomes, isolation and high suicide rates, including amongst adolescents. The South African National Mental Health Policy Framework and Strategic Plan (2013-2020) aims to integrate mental health into the health system to provide quality mental health services that are accessible, equitable and comprehensive, particularly for community-based mental health. This article provides an overview of mental health care in South Africa, highlighting its public health importance. © 2019 The Author(s).

Language: en

Keywords

human; suicide; Suicide; Review; South Africa; Adolescents; bipolar disorder; Stigma; depression; Public health; treatment outcome; posttraumatic stress disorder; mood disorder; psychoeducation; mental disease; mental health care; mental health service; anxiety disorder; electroconvulsive therapy; health insurance; public health service; community mental health; Mental illness; mania; hypomania; social competence; social stigma; psychological well-being; cognitive behavioral therapy; Management of mental disorders