After the euphoria of the 1994 elections and the huge change and possibility of prosperity, many South Africans have been left disappointed nearly 23 years down the line.
This according to research psychologist Wanda Roos, who started her talk at the Barefoot Kitchen in Ngwenya Glass Village off with the possibilities and expectations of post-apartheid South Africa.
Roos explained that because of the expectations that never came to pass, citizens are left disillusioned and might start to live on a diet of negativity. In a fast-paced lifestyle, it is difficult to deal with the negatives as individuals do not have the time to handle the effects and draw on positive resources.
Negative stresses that Roos listed include rising food prices, water worries, violence and murder, financial struggles and protests. “The power of the person on the street and the sense of community power is eroded by these stresses, and levels of depression are high,” Roos added.
She explained that relationships and our ability to function can be affected by these stresses, however, the option to leave the country is not always available, or like herself, individuals do not want to leave.
Roos has created a few strategies to keep one anchored:
- Be well-read and balance the negative information with the positive
- Be aware that you can be influenced by everyday occurrences
- Be aware of your response to daily stress
- Look at coping strategies on a physical, cognitive and spiritual level
- Value and build a support system where you can uplift one another
- Implement good habits such as exercise, a healthy diet and good sleeping habits
- Engage in meaningful activities, where you learn about new perspectives and take part in interesting activities
- Be community minded and give back
- Find a positive outlet for fun and relaxation.
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