September 20, 2023

The neglected aspect of mental health recovery: Support groups and why they are taking centre stage

The meaning of recovery from serious mental illness (SMI) has come a long way. It used to be overlooked as a goal of treatment, but today, it takes centre stage in mental health policy.

It is alarming to learn that the World Health Organization reported over 970 million people were suffering from mental disorders worldwide in 2019.

The situation is no different in South Africa, where according to the Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), 1 in 3 South Africans will face a mental health issue at some point in their lifetime.

Even more concerning is the fact that only 1 in 10 people with a mental illness seek professional help and these statistics were collected before the Covid-19 pandemic struck.

Mental health services are continuously evolving and recognising that social factors play a critical role in understanding and addressing mental health problems is increasingly taking centre stage in holistic treatment.

The World Health Organization recently highlighted the significant impact of social conditions on overall health and well-being.

Most research has focused on the impact of mental health conditions on physical illnesses, but it is crucial to acknowledge the profound influence of social determinants on mental health.

More and more studies are showing that social support plays a protective role in preventing depression at an individual level.

When you're going through a tough time, your loved ones may sympathise, but they often struggle to find the right words or actions to help.

While doctors and health professionals may offer some emotional support, their main focus is always on the medical side of things.

In a thought-provoking article by Associate Professor William Gumede from the School of Governance at the University of the Witwatersrand, published in October 2021, he highlights the dire state of mental health care in South Africa: "South Africa allocates a mere 5% of its total health budget to mental health, placing us at the bottom of international benchmarks.

"This means that less than 1 person in 10 receives the mental health care they need. The lack of capacity, accessibility, and resources in the public health sector further exacerbates the situation, leaving poor South Africans even more vulnerable."

According to Harvard Health Publishing, studies have shown that peer support in traditional mental health settings improves engagement, and well-being, and reduces hospitalizations.

Mental health is a pressing issue that affects millions of people worldwide.