JOHANNESBURG, Oct. 10 (Xinhua) -- To mark World Mental Health Day, South African Deputy Health Minister Joe Phaahla on Friday emphasized the urgent need for governments, civil society, and communities to work together to improve access to mental health services.
Speaking at a commemoration held at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Johannesburg under the theme "Access to Services -- Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies," Phaahla said the theme underscores the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders in tackling mental health challenges, particularly during times of crisis.
"Mental health issues have become topical, owing to their increasing incidence and burden, and their co-occurrence with other physical health conditions leading to poor health outcomes," he said.
The deputy minister also stressed the importance of proactive engagement with communities to address the risk factors that contribute to mental health issues, including drug use.
"Data from the substance abuse treatment centers indicates that nationally, a synthetic stimulant drug called methamphetamine, also called crystal meth, has overtaken alcohol to be the second primary or secondary substance of abuse by people admitted in these facilities," Phaahla said.
Additionally, the deputy minister said there was an increase in the youth abusing substances, calling on this to be tackled. He also touched on the issue of overflowing healthcare centers treating mental illnesses. Enditem
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