Issued by the National Department of Health, Chief Directorate: Communications
26 July 2005
Health Minister Dr Manto Tshabalala-Msimang will deliver the keynote address at an event to celebrate the Mental Illness Awareness Campaign in KwaZulu Natal on Thursday 28 July. July has been declared Mental Illness Month.
This year the Mental Illness Awareness Campaign takes place following the recent promulgation of the Mental Health Care. This Act ushered in a process to develop and redesign mental health services to be inline with the rights for mental health care users as guaranteed by the Constitution of this country.
The Minister's address will underscore understanding, open discussion, and access to health services as a gateway to equip communities with necessary skills and knowledge to support people with mental illness.
Studies indicate that mental illnesses are among the leading causes of disabilities worldwide and are more common than cancer, diabetes or heart diseases. It is reported that one in every four person will be affected by a mental disorder at some stage in life.
The media is invited as follows:
Date: Thursday 28 July 2005
Time: 10:00 - 14: 00
Venue: Madadeni College Stadium, Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal
Enquiries: Solly Mabotha 083 678 9860