Mental illness and awareness surrounding the condition has been a key focus for health officials. PHOTO: Samantha lee-Jacobs

• According to a psychologist, not having access to basic needs can impact physical and mental health.
• South Africa observes Mental Health Awareness Month in October.
• Sadag said only one in 10 people with mental illness had access to treatment.

Dr Dorothy Ndletyana lost her brother to suicide and her father became an alcoholic. He died within a few months.

Her mother was diagnosed with dementia, and died within a year. 

As a result, Ndletyana – a lecturer at the University of Pretoria's Gordon Institute of Business Science – was admitted to a psychiatric clinic, where she spent three weeks.

She is one of many South Africans affected by mental illness. 

According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag), only one in 10 people with mental illness have access to treatment.

The organisation said only 5% of the country's health budget was allocated to Mental Health, and there was a severe shortage of mental health services.

READ: Flying kites on World Mental Health Day raises awareness in Heideveld, Cape Town

South Africa observes Mental Health Awareness Month in October.

Ndletyana said the most common mental health problems in South Africa were anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, major depressive disorders and mood disorders.

"I remember driving through the gate marked 'psychiatric clinic' and it felt like something was really wrong with me. That was the good thing I could do for myself, as there is still a stigma around mental illness. I meet too many people who will not take the available support because of stigma," she said. 

Dr Olivia Matshabane, a research psychologist and neuroethics expert at Stellenbosch University, says there is a huge under-diagnosis of mental health disorders in South Africa. 

Matshabane said many factors influence the onset of a mental illness.

"This includes access to proper and safe housing, safe communities, good education, transport, adequate healthcare, employment, healthy food, spaces for physical activities, clean air, clean water and electricity ... all those types of basic needs. Not having access to these or experiencing violent environments can impact both physical and mental health," she said. 

She added that there was a heavy burden on the public health system, which serviced about 80% to 85% of the population.

Matshabane said:

She said there was a severe need for government funding, resources and facilities for mental healthcare in South Africa. 

"Currently, only 5% of the budget is allocated for mental health, which is definitely not enough," said Matshabane.

Márcia Garcia Eugenio, head of Multiply Incentivised Wellness for Momentum Health Solutions, said taking care of oneself should not be considered a luxury or a guilty pleasure, but a necessity.

"By incorporating self-care activities into your daily routine, you can improve your well-being holistically, and lead a happier and healthier life," she said.