Publications | MSWA

Views
1 year ago

MWSA Bulletin Magazine Autumn 2022

  • Text
  • Mswaorgau
  • Mwsa
  • Albany
  • Neurological
  • Ndis
  • Mswa
MSWA Albany is open! | The value of acceptance in challenging times | NDIS support in an age of COVID | Pain and pain management series: Part 4

COUNSELLING THE POWER OF

COUNSELLING THE POWER OF CONNECTION DAJANA TESEVIC MSWA COUNSELLOR AND HEALTH EDUCATION/ PEER SUPPORT COORDINATOR We are inherently social beings, and we are biologically, cognitively, spiritually, and physically wired to love and be loved. Significant research evidence shows that meaningful contact with other people and being part of a community can help significantly with our physical and emotional wellbeing. Why is it important and what are the benefits? Major lifestyle changes and personal losses associated with illness and the recent pandemic have had significant effects on our sense of belonging. During these difficult times in our lives, we have a natural impulse to reach out to others for support. Allowing ourselves to be vulnerable with people we trust, we form much stronger and deeper relationships. Social connection reduces loneliness while providing a sense of belonging. Individuals who feel more connected to others have lower levels of anxiety and depression. Connection is also linked to higher self-esteem and self-worth and can help boost our immune system. So how can someone find connection? In today’s world, we live such busy lives and for some of us, social connection can fall by the wayside. Prioritising time for social connection, making an active choice to spend time with people who make you feel supported and loved. Our need for human connection does not mean that we all need to be social butterflies. Having connection can look different for everyone, what matters is that it has meaning for you. Connecting through technology can be beneficial by allowing us to stay in touch with family and friends more easily. However, technology should be enhancing our connection to others, not replacing it. Human contact and interaction are much more valuable and cannot be replaced. Volunteering, being part of something bigger than yourself. We get a much greater sense of connection when we are helping others in the community, it also gives us meaning and purpose. Animals are a great bridge to forming connection, meet up with others who walk their dog in your neighbourhood. Peer groups are a great way to find connection with individuals who can relate to what you are going through. Accessing counselling can further help with building on existing relationship skills, it can help improve your communication and emotional connectedness. When we talk about connecting, we usually think of connecting with other people. However, there are other ways of being in touch and connected that are also important; connecting with self and having quiet moments, connecting with nature, animals or with God or one’s spiritual needs. Regardless of how you choose to connect, it is important to remember that you are not alone. This is a rare time in history that people all around the world from different cultures, languages and social economic groups are experiencing the same thing together. 26

NURSING COVID-19 VACCINATION, BOOSTERS AND YOU SUE SHAPLAND RN, BN, MSCN This information is general in nature. You should always seek advice from your GP and/or neurologist, who know you well and can answer any specific questions or concerns about COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters, as well as any specific treatments you are receiving and any timing recommendations. Primary course of vaccination and boosters: What does that mean? As mentioned in the last Bulletin, for some people – those who are immunocompromised – the primary course of COVID-19 vaccinations should be three doses. In addition, a booster has also been recommended. Now, the Government and Health Department have recommended a second booster for vulnerable groups as we come into the winter months. This provides more adequate protection against COVID-19, and especially the Omicron variant. You should book an appointment to WA: COVID-19 vaccination, including have another booster dose as soon the booster, is now mandatory in as possible before or during winter WA for most sectors and workplaces if it has been four months since your but especially the health, aged care first booster dose and you fit into and disability sectors. Restrictions one of the below categories: are also in place now for those who are unvaccinated unless they have a / 65 years or older legitimate exemption. / a resident of an aged care or disability care facility / severely immunocompromised / Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and aged 50 years and older. For information and updates, go to the Health Department websites in WA, and the Federal site, as these are updated daily and provide vaccination advice and information and links for how to book your vaccination: healthywa.wa.gov.au health.gov.au or call the COVID helpline on 1800 020 080 – open 24 hours, 7 days a week. Health Direct have a handy COVID-19 restriction checker healthdirect.gov.au/covid19-restriction-checker - just select your state and the type of setting. 27

Bulletin