CHILD PROTECTION OUTREACH PROGRAMME SHINES SPOTLIGHT ON CHILD MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

By Abram Phahlamohlaka

• South Africa is witnessing a rise in mental health issues among children and adolescents, exacerbated by exposure to high levels of crime and violence.
• A recent report reveals that a significant number of children are seeking mental health services, with alarming statistics on suicide attempts and mental health crises.
• The 365 Days of Child Protection Programme, including the RISIHA initiative, aims to address these challenges through comprehensive community-based support and intervention.

All across the country in communities plagued by high levels of violent crime, children and young people are increasingly facing severe mental health challenges due to exposure to crime. This was highlighted at today’s child protection outreach programme held by the Department of Social Development in Bojanala District, North West Province, as part of the 365 Days of Child Protection Programme of Action.

Mental health is crucial to children’s overall health and well-being, encompassing their sense of identity, self-esteem, and relationships with family and peers. These factors influence how children think, feel, and behave, affecting their ability to manage stress, interact with others, and make sound life choices. Family and community dynamics play a significant role in mental health, underscoring the importance of nurturing supportive and protective environments.

Recent data from the Department of Health (2023/24) highlights the traumatic impact of crime, including high levels of gender-based violence and substance abuse. The report reveals a distressing number of children seeking mental health services at public facilities across South Africa. Specifically, 87,086 children visited public health facilities for mental health-related services, with Bojanala District reporting the highest number at 3,092. Additionally, there were 9,743 cases of attempted suicide among children and adolescents, with KwaZulu-Natal recording the highest figure at 2,968.

In response, the Department of Social Development, through the 365 Days of Child Protection Programme of Action, is collaborating with various departments, faith-based groups, and civil society organisations. This collaboration aims to enhance child protection in high-risk areas through community-based prevention and early intervention programmes. Among these efforts is RISIHA, a flagship initiative designed to build resilience in vulnerable children.

The RISIHA programme addresses seven core areas: childcare and protection, psychosocial support, HIV and AIDS services, health promotion, food and nutrition, economic strengthening, and education support. To date, the programme has reached 1,573,740 vulnerable children, significantly improving the mental health and well-being of children, adolescents, and their caregivers.