Abangane Platform: Building a Community of Mental Health Advocates
In a community grappling with unemployment, lack of access to proper recreational activities, drug and substance abuse, and gender-based violence, a 21-year-old came up with the Abangane Platform. The platform seeks to create safe spaces for young people to express themselves and receive support.
The non-governmental organization, founded by Zibusiso Munandi, disseminates information on mental health from mental health experts to the general public, prioritizing youth, women, and vulnerable populations.
“Our primary objective is to help those who suffer from mental illness and their families to live healthier lives while responding to the lack of proper mental health and psychosocial services in the country,” Munandi said during a recent interview.
Community Engagement
Through targeted sessions of community engagement, Abangane Platform endeavors to assist communities in building their own mental health infrastructure through operationalizing the information they receive. The NGO has implemented several activities within the community to achieve its objectives, including the establishment of support groups, master plan implementation outreaches, and suicide prevention conferences.
The support groups provide a safe and empathetic environment for individuals, particularly young people, to gather, share experiences, receive emotional support, and learn coping strategies.
“Our support groups are promoting the emotional well-being and coping skills of the participants, which is crucial for individuals involved in drug and substance abuse or criminal activities,” Munandi said.
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Raising Awareness
Additionally, Abangane Platform actively engages in implementing drug master plans in schools and communities, raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, educating individuals on prevention strategies, and providing support to those affected by addiction.
“We offer programs that not only emphasize the importance of education and vocational training in personal growth and sustainable livelihoods but also equip them with the necessary emotional, cognitive, and decision-making skills for active participation in governance processes,” Munandi added.
Collaboration
Recognizing the critical issue of suicide, Abangane Platforms organizes suicide prevention conferences. These conferences bring experts together, professionals, and community members to raise awareness, share knowledge, and discuss strategies for prevention and support.
Moreover, the conferences address various aspects of suicide prevention, including risk factors, warning signs, mental health support, and creating a supportive environment.
Lastly, Abangane Platforms also collaborates with Ingutsheni Central Hospital to implement the In and Out program, which focuses on providing mental health support and counseling services to individuals during their stay in the hospital and as they transition back into the community. It ensures continuity of care, promotes mental well-being, and offers support during the recovery process.
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