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WESTERN CAPE GOVERNMENTSTELLENBOSCH MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE

Mental Health Awareness Month · October 2026

Mental health is everybody's business.

Support is available at Stellenbosch Hospital and local clinics. Meet the people behind the service and learn when to reach out.

Explore the team ↓
Illustration of three people in conversation
YOU DO NOT NEED A DIAGNOSIS TO ASK FOR HELP
Meet the team

Real people. Different kinds of support.

Each team member brings a different skill. These are the topics planned for their short videos.

Illustrated portrait of Dr Lawson EksteenVideo pending

Family physician

Dr Lawson Eksteen

Your mental and physical health

Medical assessment, treatment options and care planning.

Illustrated portrait of Ronald DaviesVideo pending

Clinical psychologist

Ronald Davies

When difficulties feel complex

Psychological assessment and specialist therapy.

Illustrated portrait of Vivian LeibrandtVideo pending

Registered counsellor

Vivian Leibrandt

What happens in counselling?

Brief counselling, coping skills and early support.

Illustrated portrait of Sr Sue-Ellen du PlessisVideo pending

Mental health nurse

Sr Sue-Ellen du Plessis

Medication and follow-up

Symptom monitoring, medication effects and crisis support.

Illustrated portrait of Demi AlexanderVideo pending

Occupational therapist

Demi Alexander

Finding your daily rhythm again

Routines, self-care and returning to everyday activities.

Illustrated portrait of Liesl SassmanVideo pending

Social worker

Liesl Sassman

Support beyond the consultation

Family, safety and practical community resources.

The illustrated portraits and proposed video topics are for this team preview. Videos will be added after the staff have recorded and approved their clips.
Our services

What can you reach out about?

You do not need the right words. Tell us what has been difficult, and we can discuss the next step together.

01

Worry or panic

Feeling anxious, on edge or unable to switch off.

02

Low mood or loss

Feeling down, withdrawn, hopeless or grieving.

03

Stress and relationships

Pressure at home, work, school or in relationships.

04

Alcohol or drugs

Concerns about your own use or someone close to you.

05

Trauma or safety

Struggling after violence or a frightening event.

06

Ongoing care

Symptoms, medication concerns or difficulty with daily life.

Your first step can be a conversation.

Ask a healthcare worker at your clinic or Stellenbosch Hospital about mental health support.

01 Tell them what you are struggling with.
02 They can help you reach the appropriate service.
If there is immediate danger, seek emergency care.