Mental illness is not a curse

Mental health is an important aspect of overall wellbeing, along with physical and spiritual health.

However, it is misunderstood and has led to the stigmatisation of mental illness within black communities, which has had a detrimental effect on those faced with mental health issues and their families.

Masutane Modjadji, project co-ordinator and awareness leader for the SA Federation for Mental Health, discusses some of these stigmas and corrects some myths about mental health.

Mental health is the harmonious synergy between psychological and emotional wellbeing.

When it is neglected, it can lead to serious mental issues.

“Mental health has to do with how we cope with things that stress us on a daily basis and how to maintain good mental wellbeing.

“When our mental health is not looked after or managed, issues such as stress can lead to mental illnesses such as anxiety or depression.”

In the SA context, the misdiagnosis of mental illness is worsened  by the shortage of specialised personnel in the sector and a lack of access to mental health services.

Stigmas associated with mental illness have cast a dark cloud within black culture, she says.

“The biggest myth is that people with mental illness can simply pull themselves out of it.

“Being mentally ill is not a sign of weakness and cannot simply be cured by sheer will.”

Consultations with a health professional can assist in dealing with these underlying issues.

“Another common myth is that mental illness is a life term and incurable condition and that the person will forever be a burden on those around them.

“If the mental illness is properly managed, such people can live full and productive lives,” Modjadji says.

She believes stigmas such as the idea that people who need or use mental health care should not be a part of society as they are violent and dangerous not only affects the individual but their loved ones as well.

“This stigma can result in restricted social movement and lead to a poor quality of life as well as a delay recovery. The family is not able to help and offer support to the individual,” she says.

Within the black community, when someone has mental health issues, it may be attributed to being bewitched or having a poor upbringing.

In such instances the individual may be taken to consult a traditional healer.

Modjadji believes mental health education could help to normalise it and remove the stigma in communities.

“We need to create more open dialogue about mental health, raise awareness through campaigns and share all research findings with the public within the black population.”

Modjadji believes an individual can strengthen their mental health by increasing their sense of hope and personal strength.

“Adopt healthier ways to respond to stressful situations, and avoid the use of alcohol, tobacco and drugs to cope with any situation.

“Find happiness, joy and satisfaction in your life by connecting with what gives you meaning in life.

“Get professional help if you need it,” she advises.

Failure to correctly identify mental health issues often leads to an inability to deal with them appropriately.

Most recently, information has been made readily available and several myths have been dispelled.

However, plenty of room for improvement remains.

Neo Chabane, a mental health activist and founder of wellness organisation What’s In My Jar, raises mental health awareness and creates a safe space for people to learn from each others’ experiences.

Chabane’s first conscious experience of mental health was in 2014, after she experienced academic failure.

Through this, she realised the importance of protecting mental health.

“Before that experience I don’t think I considered mental health.

“I definitely had my moments where I was not OK but I just coped through it.

“When I became very depressed and withdrew from friends, I went to go see a therapist,” she says.

Seeking help marked the beginning of her journey in actively protecting her mental health.

Attending therapy on a regular basis, practising self-awareness and taking social media breaks when necessary are some of the ways she uses to protect her mental health.

Chabane believes the importance of conversations regarding mental health cannot be over-emphasised.

“One of the biggest misconceptions is that mental health is not for everybody.

“We think that only people with mental illnesses should consider taking care of their mental health.

“Mental health is literally like any type of health.”

In 2019, Chabane started What’s In My Jar as a safe space for young people to speak about issues regarding mental health, affirm themselves and engage in self-awareness work.

She believes a good support system has played a vital role in her mental wellness journey.

“I have family and friends who are open-minded, supportive and reliable.

“Inasmuch as talking isn’t easy, they have made it easier and safer for me to express myself.

“I am still learning so much and believe it’s important to practise mental wellness in our spaces as best as we can,” Chabane says. — SowetanLIVE