Dr Clementine Chawane Specialist Psychiatrist

19/09/2020

Sometimes when it hurts so bad all we need to do is take a deep breath remember that we are beautiful, loved and worth it 🌻

17/08/2020

Not getting enough sleep skews our ability to regulate our emotions. In the long run, this can increase our risk of developing a mental health condition.

In this Special Feature, we discuss the complex two-way relationship between sleep and mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD.

07/08/2020

... that we are special and valuable 🌻 Good morning beautiful!

16/06/2020

When someone has a physical illness like cancer, diabetes or even a broken leg, we rally around them and offer support. Research has shown that having a strong support network can promote resilience and help people manage stress during difficult times.

So why is it that when someone is struggling with mental illness, from the mildest to the most severe forms, rather than offering support, we throw out platitudes like “Snap out of it,” “Just be positive,” or “A lot of people have it worse than you”?

11/06/2020

04/06/2020

Returning To School
(Ps: this is just advise 💕)

There’s no wrong or right answer. You, as a parent(s), have to trust yourself to make right decisions for your children. Every decision has a consequence but consequences are bearable when we are at peace with them.

1. Let your decisions be based on facts instead of fear. Eg: I’m afraid my kids will get the virus at school,

Key Messages and Actions for COVID-19 Prevention and Control in Schools

2. Be part of the solution- what ever concerns you have- try to figure out a solution. Eg: I’m concerned about hygiene when using a bathroom- I’ll will suggest hand sanitizing in class when the kids come back from using a bathroom.

3. Engage your children in the discussion- don’t just make a decision without including the child, let them be part of the decision making- whether to stay home and go back to school. Try address their concerns as much as you possibly can. Try not to project your fears on to them, hear their side of the story and try reconcile with yours- if you are of different opinions.

4. Don’t judge others- some may chose the opposite of your choice, don’t judge parents who keep their children at home while you decided to send yours to school and visa versa.

5. Trust that the government is making informed decisions and that the school with take necessarily precautions however no one can give assurance that your children will be 100% safe, I don’t think you as a parent can keep your children 100% safe.

6. You are allowed to change your mind (in accordance with the school policy).

7. Try make sure that both parents are in agreement with regard to the decision. If you struggle to agree- seek advice from a non bias person to advice- agree to disagree might not work on this issue.

8. We are in this together, when anxious and overwhelmed, turn to a friend you trust not to make you feel guilty but to listen and support.

These are really uncertain times, we all don’t know how long this will last and how we are going to get exposed to the virus, the virus is in people and not places, and people are everywhere. Take precaution, be realistic, be kind to yourself and others, be part of the solution, try figure a positive way out of every situation that comes into your mind, believe in yourself and keep the faith- you are not alone, so don’t walk alone.

We have to slowly and cautiously move forward.

Hope this helps

Love Dr Clementine 💕
Specialist Psychiatrist and a Mom
Member of the COVID 19 TASK TEAM at Life Poortview Hospital
www.psychiatristnorthcliff.co.za/
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