WOMEN IN SOCIAL WORK EMPOWERED AT WELLNESS WORKSHOP

By Lwazi September

• A recent workshop for female Social Workers and Social Auxiliary Workers at the Dr. Fabian and Florence Ribeiro Treatment Centre in Cullinan highlighted the critical importance of self-care in maintaining mental health for those in caregiving roles.
• The workshop, organised by the Social Work and Social Auxiliary Work Learning and Support Forum, focused on the challenges faced by professionals in emotionally taxing roles, emphasising the need for balance in their emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
• With motivational talks and personal reflections, the workshop encouraged participants to prioritise their mental health, empowering them to continue their vital work with renewed energy and resilience.

A rejuvenating workshop was held for female Social Workers (SWs) and Social Auxiliary Workers (SAWs) at the Dr. Fabian and Florence Ribeiro Treatment Centre in Cullinan. Organised by the Social Work and Social Auxiliary Work Learning and Support Forum, the workshop addressed the training needs of SWs and SAWs, with a strong emphasis on the importance of self-care and mental health.

Forum Chairperson Patience Maimela underscored the necessity of self-care for those in caregiving professions, stating, “It is important that we fill ourselves up because you cannot pour from an empty cup.” The workshop’s central theme was mental wellness, highlighting that maintaining a balanced emotional, psychological, and social well-being is crucial for functioning effectively in everyday life.

Social Workers and Social Auxiliary Workers frequently encounter emotionally and mentally challenging cases, which can lead to burnout. The workshop aimed to remind these professionals of the importance of self-care, as their work involves both the rewarding aspect of positively impacting lives and the challenges of sometimes facing resistance or being unable to provide the desired level of support.

Reflecting on her career, Maimela shared, “I love being a Social Worker. I became a Social Worker because I saw a gap that needed to be filled when I was a Child and Youth Care Worker for 15 years, and I love working with people.”

The workshop featured various speakers who motivated participants to prioritise their mental health, reinforcing the message that self-care is essential for sustaining their ability to help others.

Maimela expressed hope that the workshop would inspire the women to reclaim their health and recognise the significance of their mental well-being, advocating for a mindset where they put themselves first.