Review Articles

Mental health care - a public health priority in South Africa

J. C. Meyer, M. Matlala, A. Chigome
South African Family Practice | Vol 61, No 5 : September/October| a4946 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/safp.v61i5.4946 | © 2019 J. C. Meyer, M. Matlala, A. Chigome | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 28 October 2019 | Published: 28 October 2019

About the author(s)

J. C. Meyer, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, South Africa
M. Matlala, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, South Africa
A. Chigome, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, South Africa

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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.

Keywords

mental illness; stigma; suicide; management of mental disorders; adolescents; public health

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