Fourways, a bustling hub of commerce and residential development, is seeing a new community-led initiative aimed at addressing the often-overlooked aspect of mental well-being amongst its residents. The Fourways Community Forum, in collaboration with local health practitioners, is launching a series of free mental wellness workshops throughout October, focusing on stress management, digital detox strategies, and fostering community connections.
The initiative comes as local counsellors and general practitioners report an increase in stress-related conditions, attributed to the fast-paced urban environment, traffic congestion, and the pressures associated with living in a rapidly developing node like Fourways. The workshops, hosted at the Broadacres Community Centre and the Dainfern Clubhouse, are designed to be accessible and provide practical tools for residents to navigate daily challenges. Topics will include mindfulness techniques, balancing work-life demands, and identifying early signs of burnout.
Dr. Lerato Mokoena, a general practitioner based at the Fourways Life Hospital and a key advisor for the initiative, highlighted the critical need for such programmes. "Our Fourways community is dynamic and driven, but this often comes with significant mental load. We're seeing more patients presenting with anxiety and chronic stress, not just physical ailments. These workshops are a proactive step to equip our residents with resilience. It's about building a healthier community from within, beyond just physical health checks," Dr. Mokoena stated.
The first workshop, 'Navigating Urban Stress: A Fourways Guide,' is scheduled for October 7th at the Broadacres Community Centre, with subsequent sessions planned every Saturday thereafter. Residents are encouraged to register online through the Fourways Community Forum's website to secure their spots, as attendance is limited to ensure effective engagement and personalised interaction.
