What to expect from the Department of Health on World Mental Health Day
The Department of Health will be tackling mental health for World Mental Day.
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As mental health and substance abuse challenges continue to rise across South Africa, the Department of Health will convene a critical stakeholder engagement session this World Mental Health Day in Johannesburg.
The session brings together key partners such as mental health experts, advocates, and the media to explore the countries ongoing challenges behind this growing crisis. The agenda for the day includes reviewing current mental health support systems with hopes of formulating actionable strategies to strengthen mental health care nationwide.
Join the fight: South Africa's Department of Health confronts mental health challenges this World Mental Health Day
Image: Azraa Sardine
High-Level Panel to Steer Discussion
Friday's session, which is part of the 2025 World Mental Health Day, is themed “Together for Mental Health".
It emphasises the power of collective effort and stakeholder collaboration to strengthen access to services and foster a sense of belonging.
The high-level panel discussion will feature Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla, alongside Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, and other provincial MECs for Health.
They will be joined by key stakeholders, including:
- Ms Shenaaz El-Halabi (World Health Organisation)
- Ms Cassey Chambers (SA Depression and Anxiety Group)
- Prof. Solomon Rataemane (Ministerial Advisory Committee on Mental Health)
- Health professionals
- Individuals with lived experiences of mental health conditions and drug dependency
Those in attendance aim to share information, exchange best practices, and provide vital feedback on the impact of current mental health efforts that can facilitate the necessary adjustments to achieve the desired outcomes this coming World Mental Health Day.
The day will also include a facility walk-around to showcase progressive interventions and investments in mental health and substance abuse provision. Officials will engage directly with frontline health workers and affected patients as the day’s activities emphasise collaborative engagement to find better solutions to the challenges of our nation’s mental health crisis.
This collaborative effort aligns with the World Health Organisation's call for countries to integrate mental health services into primary and general healthcare, aiming to increase access, reduce treatment costs, and combat mental health stigma