Solidarity supports local health workers

Solidarity plans to visit hospitals around the country with their White Ribbon initiative as an act of appreciation towards health care workers.

On Wednesday, Solidarity moved the ribbon to Vista Clinic in Centurion from where it was at Netcare Unitas hospital a week ago.

“By tying a large white ribbon to the hospitals’ buildings, community members are reminded of the courage and sacrifices of frontline workers during this pandemic,” Johnell van Vollenhoven, Solidarity media spokesperson said.

“We encourage members of the community to partake in the initiative and write a message of hope and appreciation on the back of the banners where doctors, nurses and all support staff members can read it.”

Deputy head secretary of the medical sector Johan Botha said frontline workers worked long hours, were at risk, and had little time with their families in order to serve the interests of the country and its citizens.

“We have tremendous appreciation for that, but they also need our support and encouragement.”

Peirru Marx, sector co-ordinator for Solidarity’s medical sector, said the organisation wished to support healthcare workers who worked with people struggling with mental health issues.

“We experience that people suffer from mental health because of this pandemic, as much as their loved ones who contracted the Covid-19 virus.”

Vista Clinic CEO Francois Louw said not only had the clinic noted a drastic increase in mental health issues since the outbreak of the virus but referred to the impact of Covid-19 on people as a “psychiatric tsunami”.

“This phenomenon occurred right through the history of pandemics where the severe psychiatric impact thereof on people follows. People are especially suffering from anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and suicide.

“We must keep in mind that there are three aspects to the pandemic, the virus itself, the socio-economic impact, and lastly, the psychiatric impact of it all that we have to deal with.”

According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) it was important to address stress and overcome it.

A few tips to keep stress at bay :

– Exercise assists in relieving pressure. Run, cycle, walk or work in the garden to unwind.

– Talk about it to someone you can trust, such as a friend, family member, teacher or counsellor. It might assist you to see your situation in another light. If necessary, seek professional help.

– Know your limits. Don’t fight a losing battle if something is out of your control. Make peace and accept what you can’t change. You might be in a position to change something later.

– Take time for fun and look after yourself. Eat healthy and get enough rest. You also need to break your daily routine with an enjoyable activity.

– Take on items on your To-Do List. Make a start, you will feel less overwhelmed the more you take responsibility for.

– Replace confrontation with suggestions of co-operation.

– It’s okay to cry. Breath properly, and cry if you like, it relieves anxiety.

– Think about calming scenery. It will calm you down. Or read a book or listen to soothing music.

– Avoid self-medication. You need to address the circumstances that cause you stress in the first place.

The white ribbon will move from Vista clinic to Midvaal hospital in the Vaal Triangle next week.

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