As part of their work, the SAFMH National Youth Advocacy and Advisory Forum are encouraged to take up advocacy initiatives that are meaningful to them. Callagn Frieslaar [KZN] has designed two infographics focused on the powerful role social systems play in shaping mental health, including families.
Callagn reflected: I chose to create this work package because I recognise a significant gap in how families, caregivers—or, as defined by the Mental Health Care Act, associates—are treated within mental health systems. There is a clear paradox: in the early stages of life, mental health is heavily influenced and shaped by those closest to an individual, yet little is done to support these groups in modelling and fostering good mental health from the outset. Instead, interventions tend to occur only at the point of prevention or crisis. Through this infographic, I aim to advance understanding of this often-overlooked side of mental health care – one where families and caregivers are equally influenced by mental health and deserving of support.
You can download the infographics here.
