In the month of October, SchoolNet South Africa launched the #SupportOurTeachers mini-campaign. The #SupportOurTeachers mini-campaign coincided with Teacher Appreciation Month, World Teachers’ Day on 5 October, and Mental Health Awareness for the duration of the month.
The mini-campaign aimed to raise awareness of building strong support structures for teachers to be confident when using technology. The question of well-being and wellness are equally important in the conversation of building strong support structures for teachers.
It was on this premise that SchoolNet South Africa held a webinar on 18 October. The webinar was hosted by Mathapelo Thipe, SchoolNet South Africa, with guests, Cassey Chambers, from the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) and Waheeda Joosab, from Educator Wellness SA.
SADAG, Educator Wellness SA and SchoolNet South Africa highlighted the importance of prioritising the well-being and mental health of teachers and failing to do so can likely lead to an unhealthy schooling environment.
Emanating from the webinar is a resource toolkit made available by Educator Wellness SA and SADAG, along with a video recording of the webinar.
Waheeda Joosab from Educator Wellness SA has volunteered a discounted Mindfulness & Lifestyle Journal for teachers. To access the Mindfulness & Lifestyle Journal, please use the code SCHOOLNET at checkout to get 20% off. The code is valid till 31 December 2022, or while stocks last. One offer per customer. To see more about the Mindfulness & Lifestyle Journal by Educator Wellness SA please follow the link More details about the journal here.
To reach out for more information and help, SADAG offers the following services.
24 hour toll free Helpline 0800 567 567
Free telephone counselling, crisis intervention, information, support and referrals
7 days a week, 365 days a year (always open)
Counselling available in all 11 official languages
SADAG contacts:
SMS 31393 (24 hours a day)
Online Whatsapp Counselling Chat with a SADAG Counsellor 087 163 2030 (8am – 5pm, 7 days a week)
For counselling, email info@anxiety.org.za
For school talks, materials, information or training resources – email
admin@anxiety.org.za
Website: www.sadag.org
