Delegates at the first workshop held on 18 September at the Nelson Mandela University Business School
In launching the First Aider in Wellness workshop on Wednesday, 18 September, at the University’s Business School in Gqeberha, the Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences is taking a proactive step towards fostering a healthier and more supportive work environment.
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Course facilitators, from left, Dr Nuraan Agherdien, Andrea Govender and Prof Michelle Mey
Professor Michelle Mey, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics Sciences, led the inaugural workshop with co-facilitators Dr Nuraan Agherdien, Human Resources Management head of department, and Andrea Govender, a lecturer in Applied Accounting.
The First Aider in Wellness SLP aims to equip individuals to identify and support colleagues who may be struggling with their wellbeing.
As Prof Mey noted at the launch, South Africa is rated the second most stressed country in the world, and mental health issues were all too common.
“One in six South Africans suffer from depression or anxiety. While this may be a private issue to be dealt with in our own spaces, the reality is that we carry this into our workspaces, and vice versa,” she said.
By promoting compassion and support, the First Aider in Wellness SLP hopes to create a more positive and inclusive workplace culture.
"Wellness is not just about physical health; it encompasses mental, emotional, and social wellbeing," said Prof Mey. "In today’s fast-paced world, it's more crucial than ever to prioritise our own wellness and support others in doing the same."
Wellness, she said, was one of the most common reasons for long-term sickness and absencefrom work. Intervening and providing support for staff with these problems could help save companies time and money.
At the launch Dr Agerdien shared the importance of living out the value of ubuntu, centring on the philosophy of “I am because we are”.
“Do we really know what it means?” she asked, encouraging people to be tuned into signs that their colleagues were thriving, or whether they were struggling or suffering.
The role of a wellness first aider was to know how to identify individuals who may be struggling with aspects of wellness, and provide practical strategies for identifying and supporting these colleagues.
Prof Mey said the workshop would provide delegates with the basic skills to do this, enabling them to be there for the person in need until they received professional treatment, or the crisis was resolved.
“It will provide you with an understanding of wellness, empowering you to recognise the signs and symptoms of someone experiencing mental, physical or spiritual problems.
"By investing in our employees’ wellness, we are not only creating a more compassionate workplace but also enhancing productivity and innovation,” notes Professor Mey. "We encourage individuals from all walks of life to join us in this important initiative.”
The one-day workshop, based in the Unit for Positive Organisations at the University, includes activities and interactions that lead to actionable insights based on personal experience.