A walk for a stronger mind
The team from Dr Yusuf Dadoo Hospital took to the streets to promote mental health recently.
The team from Dr Yusuf Dadoo Hospital recently created awareness around mental health by hosting a fun walk through the streets of Monument.
Besides having fun and showing support to those suffering from mental health issues, the theme also involved spreading a message that mental health is a basic human right for all people.
Puseletso Mabidikame from the hospital said, “The team came together in unity to brighten up Krugersdorp as they walked peacefully to create awareness for mental health.”
Before the 2km walk, they first gathered for a few minutes to talk about mental health.
Mabidikame further explained there are many contributing factors to one’s mental health decline, including the use or misuse of cigarettes, coffee, pain relievers and others.
According to Dr Chinamatira from the mental healthcare team at the hospital, these can be harmful and lead to physical and mental illness.
She added that anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health issues and can easily be neglected. Depression itself can stem from workplace stress for instance and many people are not even aware of their condition.
Some of the tips Dr Chinamatira shared to ensure you look after your mental health are:
• Talk to someone you trust when you feel unhappy, down or overwhelmed
• Indulge in physical activities such as walking
• Do activities that you enjoy such as cooking or baking
• Shy away from harmful substances like alcohol
• Take two minutes to focus on the good you see around you, smell a flower, feel what it feels like to touch the table, and if you don’t feel better contact the expects
“I used to have a minor mental health condition and I know what it feels like but I managed to overcome it. You can too,” said Dr Chinamatira.
Just before they took to the streets in the scorching sun, the hospital’s corporate services manager, Tsebo Litheko, addressed the masses saying, “Athletes are very disciplined, I urge you to abide by the rules of the road and take cognisance of the directions received. I wish you well.”
The team enjoyed the walk and received balloons on their way back. Here, they even wrote down their challenges on a balloon and released it into the air which signifies letting go of your problems. By popping the balloon, they then separated themselves from their challenges.
“I preferred a green balloon and wore a green skirt as it is the colour of World Mental Health representing hope, strength and support,” concluded assistant nursing manager Puleng Montsho. Her job was to uplift.
