Gauteng MEC for Health Dr Gwen Ramokgopa recently identified Little Eden Society as an organisation which provides world-class care for people with profound intellectual disability.

The MEC made the statement while addressing an audience at the society during the launch of Mental Health Awareness month, October.

For the past 51 years, the society has cared for people with profound intellectual disability and mental illness.

Staff ensure the care provided to individuals goes over and above merely providing shelter and meals.

Nichollette Zulu, public relations and communications officer of the society said the society requires an understanding of each individual’s needs.

She said holistic care is provided by ensuring the residents’ medical, stimulation, social and spiritual needs are met.

“Through a holistic care programme, we are able to work with each individual at their functioning level thereby assisting them to reach their full potential, whatever it may be.”

Nichollette said the theme for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month was young people and mental health.

“This important initiative and effort help shine a light on some of the matters that can affect or have an impact on one’s mental health and the overall care required by those who live with mental illnesses.”

She said the stigma attached to mental illness, increasing suicide rate, the number of babies born with fetal alcohol syndrome, proves that a lot of work still needs to be done.

One way in which more awareness can be generated includes advocacy and educating communities about mental health.

[With acknowledgement: Bedford and Edenvale News]