With this in mind, the North-West University’s (NWU) Alumni Office and Health Care Centre in Vanderbijlpark will be hosting a Mental Health Awareness Day on Saturday, 14 September 2019.
This will be the second rendition of this event, and the aim is twofold: to raise awareness about the importance of mental wellbeing and to promote the efforts made by the campus to address this important issue.
The day will see all members of the university fraternity – be it staff, students, alumni or community members – taking part in an eight kilometer fun activity such as walking, jogging or cycling.
According to Zanele Ngobese, alumni practitioner, it is important to send out a strong message of support and acceptance since many sufferers still experience a feeling of inferiority, frustration and unworthiness.
Adding to this, Sr Mapeete Rasoaisi, head of the Campus Health Care Centre, explains that physical fitness represents one way in which wellbeing can be promoted.
“Given the magnitude and impact of mental health challenges for individuals, families and societies, it is important for communities to make an investment in mental health and wellness,” says Sr Rasoaisi. She adds that the upcoming event, which is open to the public, symbolises the enabling power of active support networks.
More about the event
The activities on the day are set to start at 05:30 at the Campus RAG Farm next to the Vaal River. Participants will be able to choose between a fun walk, jogging or cycling the set distance of eight kilometers. The first 50 participants in each of the three categories will receive medals.
Registration fees amount to R70 for adults and R40 for students and children. Participants can pay the registration fee on the day, or pre-register by contacting Julia du Plooy on 016 910 3163 or Tshepiso Kabai on 016 910 3183. Alternatively, you can send an e-mail to julia.duplooy@nwu.ac.za or tshepiso.kabai@nwu.ac.za
