Excellent health for all

25 March 2024

Your mental health matters

Fear and anxiety have gripped the globe in the past 19 months as COVID-19 took a toll on life, economies and society at large. The pandemic affected our lives in ways we could’ve never imagined, not only did it impact our finances, but it has taken a toll on some people’s mental health too. The World Health Organisation defines mental health as “a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.” Everyone must try to cope with stress at some point in time.  A certain amount of stress isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but too much stress can overwhelm a person’s ability to cope. In the long term it becomes harmful to our physical and mental health, sometimes reaching a point where our mood, thinking and behaviour is affected. Depression and anxiety are common mental disorder that can be triggered, among other things, by chronic stress that endures over a long period. Severe stress, caused by negative life events, such as a divorce or financial loss, or loss of loved ones during the pandemic, puts the psyche out of balance, therefore it’s vital that stress is managed properly. Already, one in three South Africans suffers from depression and rates are climbing. As we commemorate World Mental Health Month, we are urging you to put yourself first and practise self-care. If you are worried or wondering about your mental health or think you are at risk of developing a mental health disorder, here are some common warning signs you should look out for: Early Warning Signs Dr Tamsyn Nash, a Counselling Psychologist at Witkoppen Health and Welfare Centre says that experiencing one or more of the following feelings or behaviours can indicate a problem: Eating or sleeping too much or too little Pulling away from people Having low or no energy Feeling numb or like nothing matters Having unexplained aches and pains Feeling helpless or hopeless Feeling unusually confused, forgetful, on edge, angry, upset, worried, or scared Yelling or fighting with family and friends Experiencing severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships Thinking of harming yourself or others If you’re feeling one or more of the symptoms mentioned above, you may need to seek professional help. But what if you can’t afford it? Here few techniques you could try: If you feel yourself sinking, give yourself time to just be.  Give yourself one day to just feel whatever you are feeling. It’s okay, we’re all human. Negative emotions are valid. Relaxation exercises such as breathing and meditation can be helpful for coping with anxiety. Exercising can help lighten up your mood, try jogging or walking around the block. Talk to someone you can trust. Talking about your feelings within a safe space with someone who’s non-judgemental allows you to express what you feel instead of ignoring or suppressing it. Say NO more often. Learning the art of saying “no”  identifying and expressing your needs is helpful, especially when your anxiety stems from taking on more than you can handle. Mental health is as important as physical health. Mental illness should be taken seriously and not to be ignored. Take care, watch for the signs. Your wellbeing is important! Here are a few helpful numbers you can contact should you need to: Suicide Crisis Line:0800-567-567 Lifeline:086-132-2322 Domestic violence helpline:0800-150-150 Childline:0800-055-555 Mental Healthcare for All: Let’s make it a reality

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Anova Health Institute continues to strive towards ending the HIV/AIDS Pandemic by 2030

23 February 2024 [Johannesburg, South Africa]   The Anova Health Institute is proud to announce the receipt of a substantial grant from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), following a rigorous and competitive application process, a testament to our commitment to healthcare excellence and innovation. With support from the U.S. Government through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), and programmatically through USAID, the Anova Health Institute will partner with the Limpopo Department of Health to implement the new award, “Achieving and Sustaining HIV/TB epidemic control in Limpopo Province”. The aim of this new five-year award is to support efforts towards HIV/TB epidemic control in Capricorn and Mopani districts. The Limpopo provincial government has termed this award ‘Hanyani Bophelo programme’ which means “live life”. This ambitious programme will be led by Dr. Lucy Ranoto, a medical professional with over ten years’ experience in the HIV/TB response in Limpopo. The programme builds upon Anova’s two-decade history of successful, impactful partnerships with the Limpopo Department of Health. Dr. Moyahabo Mabitsi, Anova’s Chief Medical Director, expressed optimism and commitment: “Our enduring collaboration with USAID and the Department of Health reflects Anova’s dedication to improving health outcomes. The Hanyani-Bophelo programme is poised to make a significant impact in the communities we serve. Throughout our journey, Anova’s mission has been to enhance people’s lives and expand access to quality healthcare by developing innovative solutions, building on scientific evidence and fostering productive partnerships. This generous grant will enable us to take a significant step forward in realising Anova’s vision of excellent health for all.” USAID Southern Africa Regional Mission Director, Leslie Marbury said, “The U.S. government’s support in South Africa reflects an enduring commitment to improve the well-being, prosperity, and quality of life of individuals and communities. With a focus on ending TB and HIV, our PEPFAR program catalyses transformative change, aligning with the South African government’s vision. Together, we forge pathways to healthier communities and brighter futures, grounded in partnership, innovation, and compassion.” In response to this grant, Dr Mutheiwana Dombo, Deputy Director General (DDG) of the Department of Health in the Limpopo Province has shown her gratitude, “This PEPFAR grant to our partner Anova Health Institute is a welcome development. Through close collaboration with Anova we have made positive strides towards the fight against HIV/AIDS, and we believe that this grant will enable both parties to continue on this journey.”   About the Anova Health Institute: The Anova Health Institute is a renowned healthcare NGO, at the forefront of the global battle against HIV. Recognised for its innovative and impactful approaches, Anova is making strides in increasing access to quality HIV care and treatment within the public sector. Our work in this field is not just about providing services; it’s about pioneering new ways to tackle the HIV epidemic. Our expertise extends across various critical areas: from clinical management of HIV to focusing on key populations and conducting comprehensive research on both clinical and social aspects of HIV. This multi-faceted approach enables Anova to not just respond to the HIV crisis but to actively shape the strategies and solutions that lead the way in this field. With a deep commitment to innovation and excellence, Anova is leading the charge in transforming HIV care and treatment. As one of the largest global partners of the PEPFAR programme, Anova plays a critical role, currently supporting nearly a million individuals on antiretroviral treatment through the Department of Health services in South Africa.   Media Contact: Sibonisiwe Dube Head of Marketing, Anova Health Institute 060 560 2673 info@anovahealth.co.za For more information, visit us on: www.anovahealth.co.za Facebook: Anova Health Institute Twitter: @AnovaHealthSA LinkedIn: Anova Health Institute

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