In a recent study by Statistics SA, done on 14 and 15-year-olds in the Western Cape, at least 20%, or one in five, attempted suicide over the past year.
According to the South African Society of Psychiatrists (SASOP), there has been a marked increase in mental health issues among young people.
SASOP says these issues had been aggravated by the isolation caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and its associated lockdowns.
Board member at SASOP, Dr. Alicia Porter, says the failure in policies and proper implementation of these policies adds to the lack of mental health support services in the country.
Audio PlayerPorter says the demand far exceeds the resources that are available.
Audio PlayerRead the complete SASOP statement here.
Related articles:
- Government urged to boost access to mental healthcare support services for young people.
- Covid-19 pandemic had a severe negative impact on the mental health of adolescent girls and young women.
As we commemorate Child Protection Week, read more about the services our Child Care and Protection Programme provides – go to https://t.co/gv2Qtt9UPH pic.twitter.com/ZRzxwRnG7h
— Western Cape Gov (@WesternCapeGov) May 31, 2022
