Frequently Asked Questions

Discover answers to common queries about mental health, wellness, and support .

What is mental health?

Mental health refers to your emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It influences how you think, feel, and act, and it also affects how you handle stress, relate to others, and make choices in life. This is something we all have and is not a state of being unwell.

What are common signs of good mental health?

Signs of good mental health include feeling generally content and happy, having healthy relationships, being able to cope with stress and setbacks, having a sense of purpose and direction, and being able to adapt to changes.

What is a mental health disorder/illness?

A mental health disorder is a condition that affects a person's thoughts, feelings, behavior, or mood in ways that cause distress or impair their ability to function in daily life. These disorders can range from mild to severe and may be temporary or chronic. Examples include depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. Treatment for mental health disorders often involves a combination of therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and support networks. It's important to seek help from a qualified professional if you suspect you or someone you know may be experiencing symptoms of a mental health disorder.

What are common mental health disorders/illnesses?

Common mental health disorders include depression, anxiety disorders (such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders.

What are some ways to improve mental health?

Improving mental health can involve various strategies, including practicing self-care activities, such as exercise, getting enough sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, practicing relaxation techniques like mindfulness or meditation, seeking social support, setting boundaries, and seeking professional help when needed.

When should I seek professional help for my mental health?

It's important to seek professional help if you're experiencing symptoms such as persistent sadness, anxiety, mood swings, changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty concentrating, thoughts of self-harm or suicide, or if your mental health symptoms are significantly interfering with your daily life.

Where can I find support for mental health issues?

Support for mental health issues can be found through various avenues, including licensed therapists, counselors, psychiatrists, support groups, hotlines (SADAG/Lifeline), mental health apps, and mental health organizations. Your doctor can also provide referrals and resources. For more information and support feel free to reach out to our counselling team on counselling@sisonkewellness.co.za

Is mental illness treatable?

Yes, many mental illnesses are treatable with appropriate interventions, including therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and support networks. It's essential to seek help from qualified professionals to determine the most effective treatment plan for your specific needs.

How can I support a friend or family member with mental health struggles?

Supporting a loved one with mental health struggles involves offering empathy, understanding, and non-judgmental listening. Encourage them to seek professional help if needed, and assist them in accessing resources and support networks. Educate yourself about mental health to better understand their experiences.

Myth: Mental health problems are rare.

Fact: Mental health problems are prevalent and can affect anyone at any stage of life.

Myth: People with mental health issues are weak.

Fact: Mental health issues are not a sign of weakness but are legitimate medical conditions that require understanding and support.

Myth: Mental health problems are just a phase.

Fact: Mental health problems can be chronic and may require ongoing management and support.

Myth: You can just "snap out of" mental health issues.

Fact: Mental health issues often require professional intervention and cannot be overcome through sheer willpower alone.

Myth: Only "crazy" people have mental health issues.

Fact: Mental health issues can affect individuals from all walks of life and do not define a person's character or identity.

Myth: Therapy is only for severe mental health problems.

Fact: Therapy can benefit anyone, regardless of the severity of their mental health issues. Other options include support groups, crisis intervention, lifestyle changes, holistic therapies, self-care activities, family involvement, skill training, mindfulness exercises and community resources.

Myth: Children don't experience mental health problems.

Fact: Children can and do experience mental health issues, and early intervention is crucial for their well-being.