Welcome to the Mental Health Information Centre,

The composer Ludwig van Beethoven had bipolar disorder. His “manic” episodes seemed to fuel his creativity as most of his famous works were composed during times of torment, loneliness, and psychotic delusions. His last symphony, the 8th symphony, took 12 years to complete and he did so in total deafness. Opium and alcohol were the only sources of relief for him during this time. Several years later he died of liver disease.

South Africa’s top mental health awareness initiative. Our site provides information on various mental health related issues, as well as an extensive database of health care professionals with a specialisation in mental health.

Our goal is to address stigma associated with mental illness by raising mental health awareness in South African communities. We also strive to be actively involved in connecting mental health professionals, as well as promoting clinicial awareness of mental health issues.

The MHIC has been in operation since 1995 and is situated at the Health Sciences Faculty, University of Stellenbosch. We work closely with the MRC Unit on Anxiety and Stress Disorders.

Feel free to browse the site, utilize the resources and contact us with any comments or queries.