Tuesday, 30 July 2024

DHW OFFERS MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT AND RESOURCES TO STUDENTS

 By: Zinhle Bhuda

Twitter: @zp_bhuda

Email: pzinhle560@gmail.com

On Thursday, 25 July 2024, the Directorate of Health and Wellness hosted a

powerful mental health awareness event at the Tshwane University of Technology

Soshanguve campus, where students came together in large numbers to learn about

mental health.

SANCA representative, Tinyiko educating attendees about drug abuse   Photo by: Zinhle Bhuda

The event aimed to dismiss stigmas surrounding mental health in the society, spark

conversations among attendees, and connect individuals with resources.

According to the event organizers, the inspiration to host this event was to raise

mental health awareness regarding issues faced by students. “We want to address

mental health issues that students go through and provide resources that can be of

help to them,” said event organizer, Winnie Maenetja.

Link to audio of event organiser : https://on.soundcloud.com/A9KntNZ4gwBFCTnJ8

Below is the link to video of one of the speakers, Lumka Mahanjana 


A panel discussion that featured local mental health professionals such as South

African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA), the

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), South African Police Service (SAPS) and

others who shared their insights about the subject, gave advice on how to deal with

mental health problems and answered questions that students had about mental

health was held.

One of the speakers, Lumka Mahanjana from the Thuthuzela Care Center

encouraged students to come forward to their center whenever they encounter

problems.

“We are always available to help people who face mental health challenges and feel

like they have nowhere to run to, especially GBV cases,” she said.

Below is a video of students providing entertainment for attendees at the event 


During the event, attendees were given educational activities to participate in and

learn from each other and the experts. Students said they learnt so much about

mental health and the importance of supporting loved ones when they go through

such. “The event made me feel heard and supported, I am grateful for the resources

that they have provided for us,” said Phiwa Masuku.

Others said that the event was very educational and created a safe space for open

discussions that normalize conversations about mental health. “The experts shared

their knowledge and offered valuable information and advice for us, I have really

gained so much from the event,” said Computer Systems (Engineering) student

Snethemba Zwane.

The local health professionals left their contacts for those who need help or

information to reach out to them.

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