Improving access to mental health services

The Western Cape government health department admitted over 6 300 mental health patients and attended to 43 921 cases at outpatient departments during the 2015/16 financial year.

Suid-Kaap Forum, 21 October 2016

The world health organization (WHO) has set the theme for 2016: 'Dignity in Mental Health - Psychological & Mental Health First Aid for All'.

In line with this, the province is focusing on reducing the stigma, isolation, and discrimination that continues to burden individuals with mental health conditions, their families, and carers.
 
In commemoration of World Mental Health Day, 10 October, Western Cape Minister of Health, Dr Nomafrench Mbombo, said that although challenged by stretched budgets, the department remains committed to strengthening acute, inpatient and outpatient services.
 
The MEC added "With increased levels of criminal activities and social factors prevalent in South Africa, many individuals are often affected by an emergency, disaster or traumatic event. Psychological and mental health first aid aims to reduce the initial distress, meet current needs, promote flexible coping and encourage adjustment and reduce the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder.
 
"Basic mental health first aid skills can be developed by anyone in the community, and should form part of an individual's duty in showing a degree of care to others in their community, just as they would wish to be cared for," explains Mbombo.
 
"The Western Cape government health has instituted strategies to retain mental health patients in care by improving outpatient services. This approach sees more frequent appointments and a streamlined transition from hospital to clinic by implementing increased discharge support that ensures mental health patients return for their follow-up appointments," says Mbombo.
 
In addition, the primary healthcare service also offers mental health services to individuals who require it. Common mental health conditions are identified, diagnosed and treated.
 
Where more complicated mental health problems exist, a referral is arranged and the patient is able to receive more appropriate levels of mental health care.