Mental Health Awareness Day at William Slater

On Sunday 31 October 2010, William Slater Step-down facility in collaboration with Bipolar Bears Support Group, hosted a workshop for the families and care givers of ex-residents.

Presentations and open discussions on various topics gave families and care givers of mental health services users (linked to William Slater) the opportunity to:

• Increase awareness and their understanding of mental health conditions
• Consider recovery as a possibility
• Create the feeling of 'I am not alone' and emphasise support available
• Learn more about how to cope with a loved one living with a mental health condition
• Indicate the needs of families and care givers regarding walking (or starting) the path of recovery
• Clarify this relatively new service of Step up, Step down and its value in the recovery process

Families and care givers of mental health service users are faced with daily pressures and challenges. They are therefore in need of attention and support in the step up, step down process.

Open discussions with a main focus on 'the power of peer support groups and how to start one' were well received by everyone. Families encouraged and empowered one another with knowledge and support.

Tracy Ellis, Facility Manager at William Slater said: "The workshop was a tremendous success and of great value not only the families, but also to the service users who will be returning home and to the community".

Issued by:
Directorate Communications
Western Cape Department of Health