Ekurhuleni health district hosts day of movement and mental wellness

The Ekurhuleni health district hosted a Kick Cancer and Mental Health Physical Wellness Day in Germiston, bringing together staff and the community for a day dedicated to health, movement and unity.

The event began with a 5km walk, followed by aerobics sessions to get everyone moving.

Attendees explored stalls offering banking, insurance, motoring and health services, reflecting the district’s holistic approach to wellness.

In his welcoming address, Ayanda Mdunyelwa, the head of HR in the health district, commended the participants for completing the walk, “Your energy, commitment and presence are a reflection of what this day is all about – unity, strength and wellness.

ALSO READ: GBV and mental health take centre stage at Germiston Taxi Rank campaign

“Today’s event is about taking a stand for our health, well-being and collective resilience. We say ‘no’ to cancer and to the stigma around mental health. We walked for those who are fighting, who have survived and in memory of those we’ve lost.”

Mdunyelwa emphasised the importance of physical activity, early detection and mental health awareness, urging participants to make wellness a shared journey.

“Exercise doesn’t just help the body. It helps our minds. Let’s move with purpose for those battling cancer, those silently struggling with mental health and for ourselves because we matter,” said Mdunyelwa.

Dr Neetha Joe Erumeda, the district’s acting family physician, acknowledged cancer and mental health survivors, as well as representatives from various government departments.

“Your presence here shows your commitment to a healthier, more compassionate workforce. This event is more than a programme.

ALSO READ: GBV and mental health take centre stage at Germiston Taxi Rank campaign

“It’s a movement to create awareness, hope and strength among us as employees of the Ekurhuleni health district,” said Erumeda.

She highlighted the need for early cancer detection and mental health care, noting that while healthcare workers serve their communities, they often neglect their own health.

“As we all know, a healthy body supports a healthy mind, and a healthy mind inspires a healthy life,” she said.

The day’s activities, from fitness sessions to health screenings and mental wellness discussions, aimed to educate, energise and empower the participants.

“Through this campaign, we aim to raise awareness about early detection and cancer prevention and the different cancer types, like breast cancer, cervical cancer and prostate cancer. They are common, but also have a screening opportunity to identify them early, before they progress to a full-blown cancer.

ALSO READ: Health Department calls for united action on mental health challenges

“Similarly, mental health conditions like depression, anxiety and substance abuse are common among individuals who cannot cope with the stressors in life.

“Today’s activities are designed to educate, energise and empower each of us, whether you are participating in fitness, getting screened or engaging in mental wellness sessions,” said Erumeda.

Ekurhuleni health district clinical psychologist Rebaabetswe Mwelase addressed the connection between mental health, chronic illness and employee wellness.

She noted that a cancer or chronic illness diagnosis often brings emotional shock and psychological strain.

“When patients are diagnosed with cancer or other chronic conditions, there is that initial shock. Many experience lack of sleep, depression and withdrawal from social life. You may need chemotherapy, but you also need to take care of your mental health,” said Mwelase.

ALSO READ: SA Health Department tackles mental health and substance abuse

Mwelase emphasised that acceptance is the first step toward therapy and healing, and that strong social and workplace support systems are essential.

“Support from family, church, and colleagues is vital,” she added.

“In the workplace, employees should work closely with wellness departments to make the necessary accommodations, such as adjusting appointments or workloads where needed,” said Mwelase.