Reducing psychosocial disability for persons with severe mental illness in South Africa

Abstract

Severe mental illness, which includes disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder, is associated with significant impairment, but the severity of the impairment and the associated psychosocial disability varies significantly within each disorder. While South African legislation and policies support interventions aimed at reducing psychosocial disability and promoting recovery, implementation remains a challenge.