2020 August Articles Archives

The positives of returning to work and working remotely

Covid-19 forced many of us to work remotely and whether you’re returning to work or continuing to work from home, in a world where there is so much negativity relating to COVID, here are some positives to consider regarding either of the two options:-

Home sweet home?

More family time
Working at home, saves petrol and time in traffic jams, allowing you to spend more quality time with your human and/or furry family.
Side-step corporate politics
Being out the office minimises the chances of being caught in idol gossip and office politics.
Choices
There’s more flexibility around working hours, as long as deadlines are met. You can dance, nap, or play with the puppy during a break – choices not possible at the office.

Missed the office?

A “real” office
Your home “office” set up may not be ideal. Your ergonomic chair, powerful broadband, with IT support at hand, may be enticing you back.
Colleagues
It is not the same meeting over Zoom all the time… You may be craving adult conversation with your favourite colleagues.
Normalcy
Tired of looking like a slouch in your tracksuit and slippers every day? Deep down, you know it’s time to put in the effort so that you feel more confident to face the brave new world. Also, having your boss and colleagues in the same office may be more motivating and supportive than you remember or had imagined.

Sources:

https://www.welcometothejungle.com/en/articles/getting-back-to-office-post-lockdown

https://www.themuse.com/advice/10-reasons-working-remotely-is-even-better-than-you-thought-it-was

Substance Abuse – Signs of children using drugs

For many parents finding out that their child is using drugs is their worst nightmare. Teens who abuse drugs may suffer emotional and physical consequences and are at more risk of becoming addicted later on. It’s vital to watch out for common signs of drug abuse in your kids. The earlier they get help, the better. Here are some signs and symptoms to look out for:

Drastic changes in health and hygiene. Track marks, frequent injuries, headaches, too little or too much sleep, a dirty or messy appearance.
Changes at home or school. Drug paraphernalia like pipes or foil, complaints from the teacher, stealing items or money, bunking school, bad results on tests or reports.
Changes in behaviour. Ignoring rules, behaving recklessly, disappearing, anger outbursts, moodiness, arguing with everyone, secretive behaviour, restlessness.
Emotional changes. Withdrawal, isolation, depression, talk of suicide, anxiety
Family History. Addiction can be genetic, so if there are addicts on either side of the family your child may be more at risk.
Environment. Your child is more at risk if there are other drug users in the home, or if you live in a community with high rates of substance abuse.

By taking an interest in your child’s life and making time to have open and honest conversations you are more likely to pick up when something is wrong. If you are concerned that your child may be using drugs, contact LifeAssist for guidance and support.

Sources:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/za/blog/when-kids-call-the-shots/201805/5-warning-signs-your-teenager-may-be-using-drugs

https://africacheck.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/3rd-Annual-Youth-Risk-Survey-2011.pdf