MHM Magazine

Issue 5 | 2021 | MENTALHEALTHMATTERS | 41 MHM SADAG has over 160 Support Groups around the country that deal with all manner of mental health related issues, as well as Support Groups specifically for family members and loved ones. SADAG guides and trains new Support Group leaders on running a group step-by-step. We help with training webinars, materials, handouts, information and more. Being a member of the LGBTI + community is not a mental health issue, but due to the still prevalent social stigma, myths and misconceptions that surround the community, mental health can become a concern, especially when there is a lack of support and understanding from friends and family. This month’s featured group is the LGBTQI + Friends and Family Group hosted by educational psychologist and mother, Ronelda Louw. Although society has come a long way, there are still many challenges faced by members of the LGBTQI + community, and support from friends and family is of vital importance. Ronelda’s group is aimed at providing a safe space where families and friends of community members can openly ask and discuss questions without ridicule, express concerns and worries, and learn more about how to be allies to the community, and support their loved ones. Recently, members of the LGBTQI+ community have also joined in discussions and are very welcome to participate. Some words from Ronelda: Why someone should join my group: “There is always a need for people to connect with others who might have similar fears or concerns. My group will be a go to place for those people. A platform or place where they will get the empathy and understanding without any prejudices.” Why a need for this type of support: There are too many people who are afraid to speak openly for fear of being ridiculed. That it's okay to be yourself and love yourself. That it’s okay for a family member to just be... not to explain themselves all the time. That friends need to be there to be a confidant, a support (to LGBTQI+ members).  Especial- ly when they socialise and others are threatening their safety. In our South African Society there are still many challenges. As a mother of children who are bisexual, I un- derstand and want to help parents share and understand too. SADAG SUPPORT GROUP HELPING FAMILIES SUPPORT THEIR LGBTQI + FRIENDS AND FAMILY