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Mental health continues to be a serious concern in South Africa, one that has been exacerbated by the global Covid-19 pandemic. Mental health disorders are on the rise in our country, and it is estimated that one in every six people in South Africa suffers from a mental illness. Despite this alarming statistic, mental health is still stigmatised, and many people do not receive or have access to the help they need.
To address this issue, a holistic approach to mental health is essential in South Africa. This approach involves considering the whole person and their environment, rather than simply treating their symptoms. It includes a range of interventions, such as counselling, psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and community support, to ensure that individuals receive the care they need to manage their mental health effectively. One of the key benefits of a holistic approach to mental health is that it addresses the root causes of mental health problems.
Mental illness is often caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, environment, lifestyle, and the internalised experience of trauma. By considering all these factors, a holistic approach can help individuals to understand the underlying causes of their mental health problems and provide targeted interventions to address them more effectively. For example, someone who has experienced trauma may require both top-down and bottom-up approaches, to help them work through their traumatic experiences and develop coping strategies:
The top-down approach tends to focus on changing the way we think and creating a greater awareness of our inner (cognitive) world, in order to change how we feel and behave, predominantly by means of psychotherapy and psychological counselling (talk therapy).
The bottom-up approach focuses more on creating awareness around our body-emotion connection, by practicing meditation, mindfulness, body scan and breathwork exercises, yoga, and other body-focused somatic therapies (TRE® or Trauma and Tension Release Exercises and Body Stress Release), as well as Ego State Psychotherapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Additionally, lifestyle changes such as exercise, a healthy diet, and good sleep hygiene — the pillars of holistic health — is also recommended to support their mental health. Another benefit of a holistic approach is that it empowers individuals to take control of their mental health proactively. By providing a range of interventions, individuals can choose the strategies that work best for them and actively participate in their mental health care. This can lead to greater engagement with treatment and improved outcomes.
A holistic approach to mental health also recognises the importance of community support. In South Africa, social support networks are often critical to mental health and wellbeing. By involving family members, friends, and community organisations in the treatment process, individuals can receive additional support and encouragement to manage their mental health. For example, support groups for individuals with mental health concerns, such as anxiety, can provide a safe and non-judgmental space for people to share their experiences, learn from others, and receive emotional support. This can be particularly beneficial for people who may feel isolated or unsupported in their daily lives.
Despite the benefits of a holistic approach to mental health, there are still significant barriers to accessing mental health care in South Africa. One of the most significant barriers is stigma, which can prevent individuals from seeking help and can also negatively impact their social and economic opportunities. To address this issue, there is a need for greater education and awareness about mental health in South Africa. This includes increasing understanding about the causes and symptoms of mental illness, as well as promoting the benefits of seeking help and support. Additionally, there is a need for increased investment in mental health services and resources. This includes funding for mental health research, training and development for mental health professionals, and the provision of mental health services in underserved communities that is contextually and culturally informed.
In conclusion, a holistic approach to mental health is essential in South Africa to address the growing mental health crisis in the country. By considering the whole person and their environment, individuals can receive the care they need to manage their mental health effectively. However, there are still significant barriers to accessing mental health care in the country, including stigma and a lack of resources. Addressing these issues will require a concerted effort from policymakers, mental health professionals, and the wider community to ensure that mental health is prioritised and supported in South Africa. Let's make a difference in our spheres of influence. After all, we are stronger together.