Mental wellness has recently emerged as a pressing issue. In fact, while physical wellbeing and the need to improve lifestyle through healthy diet and exercise have been a priority for many years, it is only since the Covid-19 pandemic made us aware of the high prevalence of stress and anxiety in our society that we started paying more attention to these twin evils.
At MIWA and our mother organisation, RMI, the issue has had particular relevance since the untimely passing of our colleagues Randall Langenhoven and Deon Rademeyer, which cast a shadow over us all.
As many of us struggle with the ensuing sadness and grief, I am reminded of how important it is to take care of all aspects of our wellbeing. It’s heartening to note that more and more people are doing just this: in a recent Forbes survey, 45% of respondents said that their top goal for the year was to improve their mental health.
It’s important to note, though, that we all have a role to play here – and that role means extending our support whenever we see it is needed. If you can see that someone is struggling with depression, stress, or anxiety, reach out. If you are struggling yourself, ask for help. There is a growing number of resources aiming to help us tackle this issue. You are not alone.
If you, or someone you know, needs help, please contact the South African Anxiety and Depression Group at sadag.org.
Pieter Niemand,
MIWA National Director