OCCASSIONS Archives - YourLifeAssist

World Hearing Day, 2021

Have you noticed how difficult it is to hear someone speaking with their facemask on? It gets frustrating, doesn’t it? Now stop for a moment and imagine switching the sound off too. The challenges of being hearing impaired are huge, especially during this time. We not only rely on the spoken word to communicate but on facial cues too. Communication is a fundamental aspect of human functioning, but it’s not that easy for everyone. On a daily basis hearing impaired people face difficulties communicating with the world around them.

On World Hearing Day, 3 March 2021, there is a global call to action, to address hearing loss and ear diseases across all ages. Attention needs to be brought to the fact that the number of people living with unaddressed hearing loss is unacceptable, and that action needs to be taken to prevent and address hearing loss. Good hearing and communication are crucial at all stages of life. Often hearing loss can be prevented or can be dealt with effectively when it is identified and treated early on.

In a win for the deaf community, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced in 2020 that South African Sign Language is set to become our 12^th official language! This will uplift the deaf community by creating a sense of belonging and inclusion. Being an official language means that it’s a language for everyone, and not just for the deaf. So, what can you do? Do your bit by watching this video and learning some basic signs. Teach your friends and kids too, and close the gap for people who are hearing impaired!

DOWNLOAD THE SIGN LANGUAGE ALPHABET. Learn how to spell your name and teach your children too!

zara2024-03-01T07:23:12+00:00

World Tuberculosis Day

On 24 March we observe World Tuberculosis Day, which places the spotlight on this curable and preventable disease. Below is a list of some of the important facts about TB:

Tuberculosis, or TB as it’s commonly known, is contagious and spreads from person to person through the air when a person who already has lung TB coughs, sneezes, speaks or sings.
TB usually affects the lungs, but it can affect other parts of the body like the brain or the spine. The symptoms of TB include feeling weak, weight loss, fever and night sweats. TB of the lungs may cause coughing, chest pain, or coughing up blood. Other symptoms depend on the part of the body that TB affects.
Not everyone who is infected with TB will get sick. There are two types of TB – latent TB and active TB.
If you have latent TB, you have no symptoms and are not contagious because the TB bacteria in your body is It is important to remember though that it can turn into active TB, so treatment is still important.
Active TB makes you sick and can spread to others.
Treatment involves a month’s long course of antimicrobial drugs that need to be taken diligently. Again this is important because, without treatment, TB can result in death.
Those with a weakened immune system, from the likes of HIV and cancer, are more at risk.
A TB test can be conducted at clinics and hospitals.

Should you be feeling anxious and or need any further information about TB, contact LifeAssist

zara2021-03-11T13:07:18+00:00

Food that fight cancer

February is Cancer Awareness Month. According to the World Health Organisation, cancer is the second leading cause of death globally. So it’s safe to say cancer has impacted most of our lives one way or another – either personally or via a loved one. An increasing body of research is starting to show that not only does a healthy diet improve all aspects of your health, but it can actually reduce your risk of getting cancer. Consider these tips when planning your weekly meals:

Colour is key. Fruits and vegetables are loaded with nutrients that keep your body fighting fit. The more different colours you include in your diet, the better. Aim to eat the rainbow!
Sulforaphane, a compound found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables, has been shown to cause tumour death and reduce tumour size in some studies. Think broccoli salad! Yum!
Carrots can be a healthy snack or a delicious side dish. Studies have found that eating carrots may reduce your risk of prostate, lung and stomach cancer.
Beans are super rich in fibre and have been shown to reduce the risk of colon cancer. And they are so versatile. They can be thrown into stews and soups or munched on just as they are.
Berries are packed with antioxidants that may decrease the growth and spread of certain cancers.
Go nuts with nuts! Research has shown that Brazil nuts and walnuts may be linked to a lower risk of cancer.
Citrus fruits like oranges, naartjies, lemon and grapefruit, could decrease the risk of cancers like pancreatic and stomach cancer. They’re perfect to include with breakfast or as a light snack.
Lycopene, which is found in tomatoes, has been shown to reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
Vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids are believed to protect against cancer, both of which are found in fatty fish. So be sure to include salmon, sardines, herring or mackerel in your diet!

Sources:

https://www.webmd.com/cancer/ss/slideshow-cancer-fighting-foods#:~:text=Dark%20green%20leafy%20vegetables%20such,lung%2C%20skin%2C%20and%20stomach.

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cancer-fighting-foods

zara2021-04-08T15:07:59+00:00

Cancer Awareness Month

Cancer – a word that fills a lot of people with dread. We hear about it all to often associated with death, suffering and helplessness. This month is Skin Cancer Awareness Month in South Africa. According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), skin cancer is the most common type of cancer and given our outdoor lifestyle, South Africa has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world! Wow, that’s scary. The good news is that skin cancer is often both preventable and treatable!

> DOWNLOAD SKIN CANCER PREVENTION INFORMATION

zara2021-04-14T09:17:11+00:00

The importance of PEP following exposure

On 1 December every year, we celebrate World Aids Day. What better time to discuss HIV prevention! Did you know that post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can prevent you from becoming infected with HIV after you have been exposed?

PEP is a medication that is taken soon after you have possibly been exposed to HIV to prevent HIV infection. It should only be used in emergency situations and can’t be used as a regular form of HIV prevention. You won’t be prescribed PEP if you are already HIV positive. You need to be HIV negative or unsure of your HIV status.

Possible exposures to HIV can take place in a number of different ways, such as:

Being sexually assaulted.
During sexual intercourse (for example, if the condom breaks).
Taking drugs and using dirty needles
Blood splashes for example when working with blood in laboratories or medical facilities.
Having an open wound and coming into direct contact with someone else’s blood.

PEP is most effective if you take it within 24 hours of the exposure but can be taken up to 72 hours after exposure. The sooner you take it the better – every hour counts!

PEP is taken for four weeks and ideally should be taken at the same time daily – it might not work if you miss doses. It is only available from a doctor, clinic, or hospital. If you think you have been exposed after hours, go to the emergency department at your nearest hospital, if there is one available and or seek medical assistance first thing the following morning. If you experience side effects like nausea, diarrhoea, or vomiting don’t just stop taking the medication! Speak to your healthcare provider who may prescribe medication to ease the symptoms. It is important to do HIV tests 3 and 6 months after the exposure to make sure that the treatment was successful.

In celebration of World Aids Day, this December, share your knowledge about PEP and HIV prevention with your friends and family – you never know whose life it could save!

zara2021-03-16T09:48:43+00:00

Life after GBV

In honour of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign, two brave survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) who are currently living in a place of safety have shared their stories:

*Daisy wrote, “I am a 35-year-old woman who endured GBV at the hands of someone I wanted to build a life with – my partner, who I loved. It started off as being sworn at and hit once a week. It eventually escalated to being strangled and sexually abused. The strain of the abuse led to me having a still born baby when I was 27 weeks pregnant. I tolerated all this pain and suffering. I thought that things would change, that he would change, but it didn’t. I could see myself dying at the hands of this man. I was locked up 24/7. I was kept away from the outside world and expected to be available for his pleasure. During these horrible times, I never gave up hope that I would survive. I ran the first chance I got and since then I haven’t looked back.

I am currently in a safe place where I feel loved and cared for. Even though I don’t have my own children here with me, I strongly believe that I will be reconciled with them again. To others who find themselves in the position that I was in, I want to say that when it feels like the walls are closing in on you and there is no way out, do not give up.”

*Linda wrote, “I was abused. Mentally, physically, emotionally. I did drugs to cope. I would leave, and then end up going back. Giving hope to a hopeless situation. The parts of me that I refused to give, he would simply take. Always reminding me of my worthlessness, my stupidity, and blaming me for all of it. Fear was my best friend. But my will to live was stronger than his words or his fists. So I left again, one last time, for good. I am now safe. My son and I are a family of two. His laughter is now much louder than my cries. I am a work in progress. I’m healing. I have faith and believe that I am beautiful. I have a job and I’m working towards a better future.

Never let anyone make you feel like you are less than what you are worth. And if they do, leave. There is help. It might not be easy, but it is worth it. You are worth it.”

If you are a victim of GBV, contact LifeAssist to find out what options are available to you. All calls are handled confidentially by professional counsellors.

*Names changed to protect privacy

Sources: St Anne’s Home, Cape Town

zara2021-04-01T07:06:58+00:00

Celebrating Women’s Month 2020

August is Women’s Month, and after all the obstacles we’ve overcome during 2020, this is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the strength and resilience of women everywhere.

How Women’s Day Started

Women’s Day, which falls on August 9^th, is a South African holiday dedicated to honouring the sacrifices made by the nation’s brave women. The occasion commemorates a peaceful protest held in Pretoria on August 9^th 1956, when over 20,000 women marched to the Union Buildings to protest against the Urban Areas Act of 1950 amendments.

The march was a peaceful but powerful statement that helped to drive change in the country, and in 1995 the day became a national holiday.

Women’s Day Matters More than Ever

The fight for women’s equality has come a long way, but there are still many changes that need to happen. Women’s Month is a time of year that’s dedicated to raising awareness about the challenges facing so many women in South Africa, Africa and beyond. This includes issues like unequal pay, workplace discrimination and domestic violence.

Nearly 50 years since that famous march took place, Women’s Month and Women’s Day still present us with many opportunities to reflect, celebrate, and challenge ourselves to continue the struggle.

How to Celebrate Women’s Month

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and all the social distancing restrictions, there are many ways you can help to uplift women during August 2020. Here are a few suggestions:

Donate toiletries and sanitary products to local women’s shelters
Start an online fundraiser for a women’s charity or shelter
Support local women-owned businesses
Support female writers and artists
Take time to say “thank you” to all the special women in your life

To all the hardworking, dedicated women in your family – we see you, we appreciate you and we thank you! Wishing you a very special Women’s Month celebration in 2020.

zara2021-04-14T07:21:11+00:00

Ways to change your world in Covid19

Annually, Mandela Day on 18 July reminds us to honour the humanitarian legacy of our former President. Despite COVID-19 social distancing protocols this year, we can still be of service to our communities.

Virtual Volunteer

Those who are most vulnerable are in greater need than ever so visit your favourite charity’s website and explore opportunities to give your time and skills online. Access to a phone, computer or cooking facilities can be of immense value.

Donations

Reputable charities are also in dire need of financial support and supplies. Contribute where you can and/or help us collect non-perishables for the needy at selected Checkers stores.

Foster a homeless pet

Love animals? Consider fostering or adopting a pet from shelters such as the SPCA or TEARS who are desperately under-resourced at the moment.

Give blood

If you’re in good health, donating blood is a great way to support your community. Visit https://sanbs.org.za/donor-centres/ or phone 0800 119 031 for virus-safe options.

Share your knowledge

If you have the time, consider offering free consultations or mentorship in your area of expertise.

Local is lekker

The temporary closure of restaurants, hairdressers, gyms, and other non-essential businesses has caused immense hardship. Consider buying a take-away meal, coffee, or gift card from these suppliers to be used later. Share offers via social media.

Connect online

Phone or Zoom to check in on those in your circle, especially the elderly, sickly or single parents. A friendly online chat and an offer to shop or run an errand can make a huge difference to someone who is struggling.

The little things

Patience with mistakes, encouragement, prayers, a thank you note, home-made cookies, a dollop of compassion or listening without judgement can brighten a day, and leave you, the giver, feeling blessed. Make every day a Mandela Day.

Be passionate. Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do. ~ Nelson Mandela

Sources:

https://www.shondaland.com/live/body/a31783399/what-you-can-do-to-support-your-community-during-covid-19/

https://bthechange.com/10-ways-for-individuals-to-take-action-during-the-covid-19-crisis-dad4dc2d93cd

https://earthjustice.org/blog/2020-april/8-ways-you-can-help-your-community-amid-the-covid-19-crisis

Author: Dr Juliette MacLiam

zara2021-03-15T13:14:24+00:00

Tune into your child’s feelings

In June we celebrate the “youth” in the country, with the 16^th June being Youth Day. The timing of acknowledging the youth could not be more fortuitous, given the impact of COVID-19.

A lot has been said and written about how adults have been dealing with the effects of COVID-19. This month, however, lets take a moment to reflect on how the pandemic has affected the lives of our youth.

“I’m not tired, I’m angry!” my child roared, much to my surprise. His reaction was far bigger than I had expected. A lot of parents are spending more time at home with their children because of the national lockdown. As we tackle the new roles such as parent and teacher, we have gotten to see the other sides of our children too. Like I did when I saw this very angry side of my usually easy-going son.

The youth are also battling with the National lockdown. So how do you help them through these difficult moments and days?

Here are a few tips as to how to help your children to learn about their feelings and, in so doing, become more understanding about others’ feelings too.

It is not your job as a parent to make your child happy. No one is happy all the time nor should they be, so let go of that idea.

You need to start teaching your child about their feelings before they are swept up in a feeling. A case in point, teaching your child about anger during a tantrum is not going to work very well.

Give your children the names of the feelings. Google real people feeling angry or happy or frustrated and see what happens on their face. You can even draw these faces onto a page and keep it on the fridge to reference later.

Help them understand that you are not your feelings. You can feel angry. It does not mean you are an angry boy. Keep your child’s identity positive but let their feelings change. You can be a good girl who feels lonely. You are not a lonely little girl.

Look for opportunities to speak about how others feel. During a walk if you see a boy on his bike you can ask ‘why do you think that little boy is smiling?’ It is easier for kids to see feelings in others before they figure out their own feelings.
Show your child that you have feelings too. Talk about your feelings. Your job is not to appear perfect but to show your child how to deal with difficult situations. By teaching what to do with a feeling it makes each one feel less overwhelming for kids, who are not great at making decisions, especially when feeling emotional.

Teach your child that feelings are catchy. Grumpiness is contagious as is joy. Talk about what you can do with feelings. Being able to recognize and name a feeling is the beginning. Figuring out what to do with the feeling is equally important. Let your kid know what is acceptable behaviour in your home.

For parenting guidance, assistance is a phone call away by reaching out to the LifeAssist National Support centre.

zara2021-03-15T16:49:29+00:00

HIV Focus – Why Does HIV Communication Still Matter?

The way we talk about HIV has a significant impact on how it is perceived, and how those living with HIV are treated by society. While understanding and communication around HIV have grown and improved in recent years, there are still many misconceptions about the illness, and it’s important to use HIV communication and education tools to help separate the myths from the facts.

The Importance of World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day has taken place on 1 December every year since 1988, so it’s easy to assume that by now people have “heard it all” and know everything there is to know about HIV/AIDS. However, there is still a lot of work to be done in combating the spread of the virus, and the stigma around it.

There are an estimated 36.7-million people around the world living with HIV. Since the virus was identified in 1984, more than 35-million people have died of HIV/AIDS-related illnesses, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in the history of the world!

World AIDS Day is important because it reminds the public and the government that HIV has not gone away. There is still a need to improve awareness and education around the virus, and raise funds for the medical treatment of HIV/AIDS.

The stigma around HIV/AIDS still remains, and to change this we need awareness and action. This means knowing your status, sharing knowledge, and speaking out against discrimination. HIV is a chronic illness and should be spoken about accordingly.

It’s also important to increase awareness about the effectiveness of antiretroviral (ARV) treatment. ARVs are remarkable, and can help many HIV-positive people to live healthy lives.

How to Get Involved in World AIDS Day

Buy and wear an official red ribbon to show your support and solidarity.
Get tested and know your status. Encourage your partner and friends to do the same.
Donate to a charity working with those affected by HIV/AIDS.
Hand out World AIDS Day informational materials and red ribbons at your workplace or in your community.
Encourage others to educate themselves and donate to HIV/AIDS-related charities.

HIV communication matters because it plays a role in reducing the stigma around the virus, and combating unfair discrimination against HIV-positive people. By dismantling myths and spreading correct information, we can help those affected to live happier and healthier lives.

If you have any questions about HIV/AIDS, you can contact our Employee Wellness helpline for more information.

DOWNLOAD THE WORLD AIDS DAY POSTER HERE >

Sources:

World AIDS Day. Retrieved from: https://www.worldaidsday.org/about/

zara2021-04-07T07:56:24+00:00