We are excited to have gathered for a momentous occasion in Sebokeng. This event marked the beginning of a collaboration between FG Wellness Foundation and Sebokeng's mental health network. Our shared goal is to unite professionals across various disciplines to establish a robust network dedicated to empowering social workers with the necessary awareness and tools.
On the 20th of November 2023, the community of Sebokeng gathered for a day dedicated to mental health awareness, guided by Lorren, who delivered an insightful session on holistic wellness. Addressing the five pillars of wellness – physical, spiritual, environmental, emotional, and social – provided a framework for understanding and nurturing mental well-being.
We shared our personal journeys around a holistic approach to wellness and fostering a collective commitment to mental health. Attendees not only learnt but actively discussed and embraced practices to lead a healthier, more balanced life. The spirit of encouragement prevailed as community members pledged to make holistic well-being a cornerstone of their goals for 2024.
Sharing Personal Strategies for Holistic Wellness
As Lorren led the discussion, community members openly shared their personal approaches to each aspect of wellness:
Physical Wellness:
Participants discussed their exercise routines, whether it was daily walks, gym sessions, or meditation practices.
Conversations emphasized the importance of maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated.
Spiritual Wellness:
Many shared experiences of finding solace in meditation, prayer, or connecting with nature.
We discussed how our beliefs in God in and spirituality play a role in providing a sense of purpose and inner peace. Particularly within the context of our work in the mental health sector it is worthwhile believing in something bigger than ourselves.
Environmental Wellness:
We explored ways to contribute to a healthier environment, such as workspaces, family and making decision that keep healthy boundaries in relationships.
Discussions focused on creating spaces that promote well-being, both at home and in the community.
Emotional Wellness:
Personal stories highlighted the significance of expressing emotions and seeking support from friends or professionals.
Participants shared coping mechanisms, such as journaling, art, or music, to navigate through challenging emotional phases.
Social Wellness:
Conversations revolved around building and strengthening social connections.
We further discussed the importance of setting boundaries and fostering positive relationships for overall well-being.
To summarise the session, we went on to discuss.
Setting Holistic Goals for 2024
Following the enriching discussions, the community collectively committed to making holistic wellness a central theme in their goals for the upcoming year:
Individualized Wellness Plans:
Each participant committed to creating a personal wellness plan, incorporating insights gained during the session.
Goals ranged from incorporating more physical activity into daily routines to dedicating time for self-reflection.
Community Initiatives:
The group expressed interest in organizing regular wellness check-ins and events to sustain the momentum and support each other.
Knowledge Sharing:
Participants pledged to continue learning and sharing resources on mental health and wellness.
The goal is to create a supportive environment where knowledge and experiences can be freely exchanged.
Dr Faith touched on suicide, and its effects on the community. Her comprehensive discussion not only highlighted the signs that should not be ignored but also offered guidance on when and how to react, emphasizing the significance of referral and professional intervention.
Dr. Faith provided valuable insights into the warning signs that could indicate someone is at risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior:
Expressions of Hopelessness: Verbalizing feelings of being trapped or having no reason to live.
Changes in Behavior: Withdrawal from social activities, recklessness, or increased substance use.
Mood Swings: Severe mood swings or sudden calmness after a period of depression.
Giving Away Possessions: Making arrangements or giving away belongings unexpectedly.
Expressing Intent: Direct or indirect statements about self-harm or suicide.
Understanding when and how to react when someone exhibits these signs is crucial.
Take Every Sign Seriously: Any hint or indication should be taken seriously and addressed with care and concern.
Open Conversation: Engage in open, non-judgmental conversations, expressing genuine concern for their well-being.
Active Listening: Pay close attention and actively listen to their feelings and concerns without interrupting or judging.
Dr. Faith stressed the importance of timely referral and seeking professional assistance:
Immediate Danger: If someone is in immediate danger of harming themselves, call emergency services without delay.
Supportive Referral: Encourage seeking professional help by providing information about helplines, counseling services, or mental health professionals.
Offer Support: Accompany them or provide assistance in contacting a mental health professional or helpline.
Emphasizing the Role of Community Support
Dr. Faith highlighted the crucial role of community support networks:
Normalization of Seeking Help: Advocate for an environment where seeking mental health support is normalized and encouraged.
Support Resources: Promote awareness of community-based support groups and resources available for those struggling with suicidal thoughts.
Continued Education and Awareness
Dr. Faith concluded by emphasizing the need for ongoing education and awareness.
Training Programs: Encourage community members, including educators and caregivers, to undergo training in suicide prevention and mental health first aid.
Continuous Dialogue: Foster open and continuous dialogue on mental health to reduce stigma and encourage proactive support.
Finally, she shared tools on how to manage a suicidal situation and we had a role play which gave a practical application what we had learnt.
Our meeting at Sebokeng was nothing short of extraordinary, and it wouldn't have reached the heights of success if it weren't for the unwavering support we received from Oswell. His tireless dedication and relentless efforts behind the scenes were the driving force that brought everyone together in Sebokeng. From meticulously coordinating logistics to securing the perfect venue, Oswell left no stone unturned to ensure the event's seamless execution. We are immensely grateful for Oswell's invaluable support, and it's clear that his passion for fostering positive change in communities is both commendable and inspiring. Our sincerest thanks go out to Oswell for being the driving force behind the success of our Sebokeng meeting. Not forgetting each and everyone who took their time to attend, contribute and share their experiences.
Lastly, we are looking forward to collaboration with various stakeholders—such as community organizations, mental health professionals, policymakers, and individuals with lived experiences—can lead to more comprehensive and inclusive solutions. It's through this joint effort that we can create meaningful change and ensure that mental health issues receive the attention and support they deserve.
If you are a mental health professional interested in collaborating with FG Wellness Foundation towards the community work at Sebokeng, please reach out to us via email at info@fgwellness.co.za. We look forward to potential partnerships and contributions within the mental health sector.
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