With the ongoing global Covid-19 crisis, many academic institutions, both locally and abroad, are making sure that they prioritise the well-being and mental health of staff and students.
As part of the Mandela Day activities at Stellenbosch University (SU), Matie Community Service hosted a 67-minute online discussion on the theme of “Staff wellness during COVID-19 and beyond".
To commemorate Mandela Day this year, Matie Community Service (or “MGD") decided to create an opportunity for SU staff to pause for 67 minutes and reflect on how the pandemic has affected their lives.
The online discussion was chaired by Dr Gillian Arendse, former deputy director of the Centre for Student Recruitment and Career Advice at SU. The panel members were Prof Soraya Seedat, distinguished professor of Psychiatry and executive head of the Psychiatry Department in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Dr Lynne Damons, a psychologist and lecturer in the Educational Psychology Department in the Faculty of Education, and Ms Shibu Mamabolo, head of Employee Wellness.
Prof Ronelle Carolissen, MGD chair, opened the online event and welcomed participants. She stressed the importance of having regular online discussions as a way of keeping people connected and helping them cope during these unprecedented times.
She also reflected on the loss of “structure and traditions that have always been a source of certainty" and expressed the hope that MGD's programmes and discussions would help staff and students cope, remain well and mentally healthy going forward.
During the online discussion, all three panel members reflected on how the pandemic had affected their coping skills and mental health, and made them consider what was most important in life.
Prof Seedat pointed out that many people across the country were struggling with mental health during this time, so staying resilient was crucial.
“COVID-19 affects us all, young and old. It's important that we not only flatten the COVID-19 infection curve, but also the curve of mental health conditions among staff and students," said Seedat.
Dr Damons commented on the “different phases of coping with COVID-19" and recommended that people use this time to self-reflect and work on having more empathy with others facing similar struggles.
“For many people, it's been a difficult time, as they have had to accept changes beyond their control, as well as take stock of their lives and identity. It is now more important than ever before to have authentic connections with others and use all the available online platforms to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic."
Ms Mamabolo said that the University remained committed to staff health and wellness, and again invited all SU employees to utilise the resources available.
“Unfortunately, many staff members are yet to unlock all the resources available to them at the University. For instance, all staff have access to the Employee Assistance Programme, which can be of great assistance during this time, specifically to those who are struggling to cope," she said.
MGD will be hosting another two events for staff and students on 29 and 31 July.
These events will focus on the arts, poetry and music, and will include webinars and conversations.
For more information, click here.
