Month: August 2023

Seven Reasons Why We Should All Know Sign Language

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The connection that links us to the world of people with loss of hearing or verbal communication difficulty is sign language. Sign language is made up of different kinds of hand, finger, arm, head, and facial expressions and movements in addition to symbols.

Learning sign language takes a lot of perseverance and practice. It’s learned by those who are deaf themselves, by those who are deaf in their families, by teachers who work with children who are living with disabilities, and by newsreaders who use sign language to communicate with deaf viewers.

The act of expressing words or emotions with the hands, fingers, or face is quite interesting and exciting.

Here are seven benefits of learning sign language:

  • It helps deaf people communicate with others.
  • It helps in the journey of adjusting to society for those with hearing loss.
  • It gives deaf children an opportunity to educate themselves.
  • It helps people living with disabilities feel more confident.
  • It encourages people who are not audio-impaired to learn sign language.
  • It helps promote community.
  • It reduces conflict among individuals as a result of communication difficulties.

Sign language translators and teachers are necessary in public settings including police departments, the courts, and hospitals.

Learning a new language can feel like a big task! However, sign language is not a difficult language to learn. Most signs are often common gestures. There are also a lot of resources to help you along your journey. Be prepared to get expressive! If you’re wondering where to start, you can click on this link for some tutorials: https://youtu.be/v1desDduz5M.

I hope you do enjoy! Please share your journey with me through my platforms. ❤️

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, an  Instagram message, a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).

All You Need To Know About Teen Sexual Health

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Teen sexual health is about how sex affects your physical and emotional health. It means knowing how to form healthy relationships and making the right decisions around sex.

As your body changes during puberty, how you think, feel, and interact with others also changes. You may have new feelings and thoughts about sex. Understanding who you’re becoming as a sexual young adult is also part of teen sexual health.

Forming healthy sexual habits

For all teens, taking responsibility for sexual health is part of growing up. Whether you choose to have sex or not, responsibility includes educating yourself about:

When deciding to have sex

Deciding to have sex is your decision, and yours alone Choma. Never allow yourself to be pressured into having sex when you’re not ready either physically or emotionally. Even if your friends are all having sex and you’re the only one not having it, don’t give in to the pressure. Read up about sex or talk to a trusted friend.

If you’re going to do it, be safe

Having sex can be great, but it comes with consequences if you don’t protect yourself. You may be at risk of getting HIV and other STIs as well as an unplanned pregnancy. It’s important to know how to protect yourself, by using a condom (it can be the male or the female condom). The use of contraceptives also prevents unwanted pregnancies.

If you have recently had unprotected sex or a condom burst, you may need emergency contraceptives which is a morning-after pill to prevent you from getting pregnant. Please remember Choma, the morning-after pill is not a primary contraceptive but is taken in cases of an emergency, when your primary contraceptive fails.

Consent is important.

Consent means both of you are in it when it comes to doing anything sexual. It means no one is forcing the other to do anything they aren’t comfortable with doing.

How will you know if you are ready for sex?

Many issues, such as peer pressure, curiosity, and loneliness, might lead you into early sexual activity. It’s important to wait until you’re sure and ready to participate in any sexual activity. The decision should be yours and no one has the right to pressure you into doing anything you don’t want to do.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, an  Instagram message, a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).

All You Need To Know About Foetal Alcohol Syndrome

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What is Foetal alcohol syndrome?

Foetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is a condition that affects children through alcohol exposure during pregnancy. This condition causes brain damage and growth problems. One of the best things a mother can do for their unborn child is to avoid alcohol completely during pregnancy. This gives the unborn baby the best start to their future.

What happens to your unborn baby when you drink alcohol during pregnancy?

When alcohol enters the bloodstream of a pregnant woman, it’s carried through the placental tissue that separates the baby’s blood system from hers. This means the alcohol is directly delivered to the unborn baby, so when the mother drinks, so does the unborn baby.

How does FAS affect children?

Children with FAS have unique facial features such as small eyes and a thin upper lip.

They may also experience:

  • Poor growth. Newborns may have low birth weights and small heads compared to other babies. They may not grow normally or gain weight.
  • Birth defects. FAS can cause heart, bone, and kidney problems. Vision problems and hearing loss are common, as well as other defects such as shortened limbs e.g. one arm shorter than the other.
  • Seizures and other neurological problems such as learning disabilities, and poor balance and coordination.
  • Delayed development. The child may not reach milestones at the expected time.
  • Behavioural problems. Babies may be fussy and have trouble sleeping.

How is FAS diagnosed?

  • Doctors can diagnose the condition based on a baby’s symptoms, especially if they know that the mother drank alcohol during pregnancy.

How Is FAS Treated?

There is no cure for FAS. But many things can help children reach their full potential, especially if the problem is discovered early. Things like early intervention services, special schools and speech and physical therapy.

Can FAS be prevented?

It can be prevented by avoiding the intake of alcohol during pregnancy. Any woman who is trying to get pregnant or thinks she might be pregnant should not drink alcohol. If a pregnant woman does drink, the sooner she stops, the better it will be for her baby’s health.

When we provide a stable, nurturing, and safe home environment for our children, we can help reduce the effects of FAS. Don’t be afraid to get help if you or anyone you know needs help to stop drinking alcohol.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, an  Instagram message, a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).

How To Promote Your Oral Health

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Your oral health is more important than you might realize. It’s important to understand how the health of your mouth, teeth and gums can affect your general health.

Any dental care routine must include brushing your teeth. It ensures a healthier, brighter, and more hygienic smile. If left untreated, plaque, bacteria, gum disease, and a wide range of other dental problems can begin to form on the teeth.

Here are five tips to keep in mind:

  1. Wait 30 minutes after a meal before brushing your teeth.
  2. Brush your teeth twice a day.
  3. Brush your teeth every morning.
  4. After fluoride treatment, avoid hot drinks and sticky foods.

Steps for perfect brushing routine:

  1. Use a soft-bristled brush.
  2. Clean the outer surfaces of teeth (upper and lower).
  3. Clean the inner surfaces of teeth (upper and lower).
  4. Brush your tongue.
  5. Clean chewing surfaces (upper and lower).

Applying these tips results in the best brushing routine.

Gum disease and other oral health issues could be symptoms of more serious health issues. Plaque, a thick bacterial layer that develops on your teeth, is an illness that leads to gum diseases. Plaque bacteria have the power to damage the bone and tissue surrounding your teeth if left untreated, which could result in tooth loss. Your body may become infected by the germs, which could make you ill.

Here are 8 tips on how you can safeguard your dental health:

  1. Maintain flossing and brushing every day to maintain your dental health.
  2. At least twice every day, spend two minutes brushing your teeth. Fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush should be used.
  3. Always floss.
  4. After brushing and flossing, use mouthwash to remove any leftover food still in your mouth.
  5. Eat healthily and avoid unhealthy foods and beverages.
  6. Every three to four months, or earlier if the teeth become damaged or spread, you should replace the toothbrush you use.
  7. Plan regular dental cleanings and checkups at the dentist.
  8. Avoid smoking cigarettes.

Choma, did you know that problems with your mouth can influence the rest of your physical well-being or that your oral health may give information about your general health? Learn more about your dental health to keep yourself healthy.

Any problems with your dental health should also be reported to your dentist right away. An investment in your overall health means taking care of your dental health.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, an  Instagram message, a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).

How To Balance Your Finances And Mental Health

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Thinking about finances can be stressful and emotional. When you are concerned about making ends meet and covering expenses, you’ll likely find yourself in a negative space.  Financial insecurity can trigger feelings of panic, anxiety, and depression. This can affect your self-esteem and lead you to despair. When financial stress becomes overwhelming, your mind, body, and social life can pay a heavy price.

How can you tell if your finances are affecting your mental health?

  • Lack of focus and indecisiveness When you have financial problems, you may experience episodes of distraction and lack of concentration. This may lead to poor decision-making.
  • Mental health conditions Financial problems can lead to many mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and feelings of worthlessness.
  • Poor relationships Finances can put a strain on any relationship, both personal and professional. This is because it causes tension and conflict, and this affects communication and trust.
  • Sleep disturbances Insomnia or poor quality of sleep. A person who is not sleeping properly will become fatigued, irritable and have difficulty concentrating.
  • Poor coping methods Financial strain may also lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms like alcohol and substance abuse. These types of unhealthy or risky behavioural patterns only worsen financial and mental health problems.

Ways to balance your finances and mental health:

When you have seen how your finances are affecting your mental health, it’s important to know how to alleviate the stress and cope better. These are some of the ways:

  • Learn how to create a budget You can get help from an expert like a financial advisor who can help you set self-discipline practices to have more control over your finances. This will also help with identifying problematic areas like where money is being wasted and what you can cut down on.
  • Prioritise needs over wants Decide what’s really needed in your life and prioritise it. Rather than buying takeouts, you can prepare your meals at home. When you focus on those things, it will not only help reduce your financial obligations but also reduce stress and anxiety.
  • If you have debt, manage it effectively It may seem like a task, but you can overcome debt with the right attitude and implementing the right strategies. Once you’ve worked out your budget, it can help you plan how to pay off your debt.
  • Practice self-care This is important when managing stress and anxiety. Self-care practices like exercise and meditation are some ways that you can gain a healthy grasp of the situation and can reduce mental health problems.
  • Be forgiving to yourself Mistakes happen and setbacks will occur. Be kind and patient with yourself. Don’t allow your current situation to affect your future. Commit to your financial stability and mental health.

Remember, if you are struggling financially or psychologically, ask for help. This may be in the form of getting financial advice to reduce financial difficulties or simply sharing with someone you trust. When you notice you cannot cope and you are feeling hopeless, reach out to family and friends you trust or get help from a mental health practitioner.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, an  Instagram message, a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).

Tips On How To Build Your Self-Esteem

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Self-esteem is the opinion we have of ourselves. When you have healthy self-esteem, you tend to feel positive about life in general and this helps you tackle anything life throws at you with grace. When your self-esteem is low, you may tend to be critical and feel negative about yourself.

How does low self-esteem affect you?

If you have low self-esteem or confidence, you may hide away from social situations, avoid trying new things and challenging yourself. Living with low self-esteem can harm your mental health or make you feel unworthy. Others may develop unhealthy habits like smoking and drinking too much, as a way of coping.

Things you can do to build your self-esteem:

  • Get to know yourself

Get to know what makes you happy and what you value in life. You can also write this in your journal if you have one.

  • Be kind to yourself

Try challenging unkind thoughts about yourself that might automatically put you down.

  • Say positive things to yourself

You may do this in front of a mirror, at first it might be uncomfortable but as you do it regularly, it will become more effortless.

  • Practise saying no

Being assertive can be difficult if you’re not used to it. Agreeing to too many things to please others can drain you. It’s okay to say no at times. Don’t feel bad about it.

  • Avoid comparing yourself to others

Social media can play a huge role in making you compare yourself to how others are and what they are doing. Remember, you’re running your own race.

  • Do something nice for yourself

Make your favourite meal or take yourself out.

  • Celebrate your successes

Take time to praise yourself for anything you have accomplished, no matter how little it may seem.

  • Accept compliments

You could save them up to look over when you’re feeling low or doubtful of yourself.

  • Write a list of things you like about yourself

For example, this could be a skill that you’ve learnt or something you do to help other people.

Try to build relationships with people who appreciate and bring out the best in you and avoid people who constantly bring you down.

Remember you may not quickly move from low self-esteem to high self-esteem overnight, but you can make improvements day by day with just a little self-love and appreciation.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, an  Instagram message, a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).

Social Media Pressures On Youth- What is the Impact?

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Social media can be a wonderful way to keep in touch with friends, but it can also make us feel insecure about our lives or like we have to constantly be online.

Social media posts can present a lifestyle that is just as unrealistic as a movie set. It can be easy to believe that this represents real life.

We all create social media profiles that highlight the best elements of our offline lives and cover up those occasions when we feel a bit down, or just plain flat. This may involve adding a few filters to our selfies, arranging a “candid” photo, or posting about a night out that wasn’t as enjoyable as you claim it was.

Social media pressures are real. They have an impact on every single one of us. Here are some tips for coping with social media pressures:

  1. Check yourself.

When you have doubts about posting an event, consider your motivation. Is it because you’re seeking to present a certain image online? It’s usually helpful not to post something if it’s more about maintaining an image. Being true to oneself on and offline is important. Only post things that truly represent who you are and that make you feel positive about yourself.

  1. Social media is not real life.

Carefully consider what you read and see online because many posts are not the complete truth. Behind every post, someone has probably taken the same picture 30 times from different angles or placed objects purposely to make it appear as natural as possible. Understand that celebrities edit their images or prepare events to make it seem like their lives are far more interesting than they are. Despite what you might see on their social media feeds, celebrities too, experience off days.

  1. Delete any accounts that give you negative vibes.

Ask yourself if the social media profiles you follow are making you feel good or bad. Unfriend the accounts that don’t make you feel good about yourself and start following the ones that do. Instead of messages that make you angry or embarrassed, try to fill your feed with pieces that are motivating or reflect topics you truly have an interest in.

  1. Turn off all notifications and go without a phone for a day.

Try turning off your phone if you realize that you are spending too much of your time browsing through your feed and it is making you feel under pressure. It can be helpful to take a break and log out for some time. Go outside and leave your phone at home.

  1. Reach out to someone.

Social media pressures can make you feel alone and that everyone else is having a great time. Reach out to one of these online and telephonic counselling services for guidance and support if you feel like you need to talk to someone or you are starting to feel like your mental well-being is affected.

Mtase, if you allow what people believe and say about you to influence how you feel about yourself, social media may be a never-ending cycle of challenges.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, an  Instagram message, a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).

Know Your Patient Rights In The Public Healthcare Sector By Nurse Tshepo

Posted on by Michelle Sephofane

We hear about patients’ dissatisfaction with healthcare services daily, so one could argue that patients’ rights have not been upheld in our public healthcare systems. However, the Department of Health is enforcing the Patients’ Rights Charter, established by Act No. 108 of 1996 by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, to ensure everyone has access to adequate healthcare.

As an adolescent young person accessing healthcare, you play an important role in your health, safety, and quality of treatment. You must therefore be aware of your patient’s rights and responsibilities. They safeguard you in a health facility and ensure proper care.

Knowing your rights as a patient will enable you to participate actively in your treatment, resulting in more preventative visits and a lifetime dedication to your health. Additionally, it enhances advocacy on your and other people’s behalf and helps to prevent medical malpractice.

The South African Patients’ Rights Charter (Bill of Rights) says every patient has the right to:

  • A healthy and safe environment to ensure physical and mental well-being.
  • Participate in the development of health policies and to input on decisions affecting their health.
  • Access to healthcare: timely care in emergency department, treatment and rehabilitation, special needs, counselling, palliative care, a positive disposition, health information.
  • Knowledge of one’s health insurance/medical aid scheme.
  • Choice of health services.
  • Treatment by a named healthcare provider.
  • Confidentiality and privacy.
  • Informed consent.
  • Refusal of treatment.
  • A second opinion.
  • Continuity of care.

One can learn more about these patients’ rights in detail by accessing the patient rights charter. It is necessary to conduct research, educate yourself on these rights, and seek guidance from professionals within healthcare services. Be a proactive youth, advocate for your own healthcare services, and remember that the first wealth is good health.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, , an  Instagram message , a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).

Tips On How To Love Yourself

Posted on by Michelle Sephofane

Loving yourself forms a big part of your happiness and moulds how you interact with the world. Confidence is an important part to loving yourself. When you are not confident in yourself, it can be hard to move forward and feel good about who you are. Here are some steps to help you to love yourself:

Be Kind To Yourself.

Mind your language in your self-talk. Don’t call yourself mean things like unworthy, or useless because the mind tends to believe everything, we say to it. Words and thoughts have the power to create the situations they express; therefore it is important to talk positively to ourselves and about ourselves when no one else is listening. Celebrate yourself every day because you’ve come so far.

Don’t Compare Yourself to Others

Comparison is one of the biggest enemies of self-love. When you compare yourself to others, you start being discouraged and start thinking you’re not good enough. Rather focus on your own journey and run your own race. Celebrate your success without worrying about what others have achieved. Everyone has their own life experiences, so try not to dwell on what other people are doing.

Don’t Expect Others to Make You Happy

It’s important to remember that you don’t need anyone else to make you happy but you. When you learn to love yourself and find contentment within, you will not rely on the validation or approval from others. The happiness they may bring will just be a bonus because you are your own happiness.

Don’t Base Your Worth On What Others Think Of You.

It’s easy to get caught up in the opinions of others, but it’s important to remember that their thoughts and feelings about you don’t define you. Everyone has their own thoughts, beliefs, and values, so try not to take what they say too personally because it will affect you negatively.

Accept Your Flaws.

Nobody is perfect, and that’s the first thing you should accept.  Embrace your flaws. They are part of what makes you unique. Acknowledge that the pressure society puts on us to be perfect is unfair and unrealistic.

Put Yourself First.

Don’t feel bad about doing this, sometimes we can grow accustomed to putting others first. Although sometimes it can be necessary, it shouldn’t be a habit that costs you your mental or emotional well-being. Find the time to unwind, whether it’s spending the day in bed, being outdoors or treating yourself to a solo date. Find what helps you feel good and dedicate time to it.

Remember that self-love may not happen overnight. But with time, it will settle itself into your heart and you will see the treasure in you.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, , an  Instagram message , a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).

How To Know You’re An Over-thinker

Posted on by Michelle Sephofane

Unnecessarily overthinking results in less action. Life should be experienced, not overthought. Are you an overthinker? If you eagerly want to know the answer to this question, then this article is just for you.

Here are 5 warning signs that you’re overthinking:

  • You can’t help but worry.
  • You worry a lot about things you can’t control.
  • You frequently ponder “what if…” scenarios.
  • You obsess over things that people say or do that you don’t like.
  • You frequently ignore what is happening in the now because you spend a lot of energy either reflecting on the past or thinking about what lies ahead.

What You Can Do About Your Overthinking:

Maintain Your Attention on resolving problems.

Finding solutions is more beneficial than concentrating on your issues. Evaluate how you might prevent the issue if it’s an issue that you can do something about or set a goal for yourself to come up with five possible solutions. Consider coping mechanisms if it’s something you have no control over, such as a natural disaster. Focus on things you can influence, such as your state of mind and concentration.

Examine What Your Views Are.

It’s easy to let unfavourable ideas consume you. Therefore, accept that your ideas may be overly negative before you conclude that missing one deadline will result in homelessness or that taking a sick day will result in your termination.

Keep in mind that you won’t be able to view circumstances objectively if your emotions are running high. Look at the proof from a distance. What proof do you have that your belief is true? What proof do you have that your belief is false?

Learn To Be Mindful.

While you’re in the moment, it’s difficult to think back on the past or stress over the future. You can improve your present-moment awareness by practicing mindfulness.

Mindfulness requires action, just like any other ability, but with time it can help to lessen overthinking. You can learn mindfulness through taking lessons reading books, using mobile apps, watching programs, or watching videos.

Release past events.

Overthinkers frequently dwell on the past. Dwelling in the past robs you of the pleasure of the current moment that you are in. You cannot do anything about what is past since it is gone but you can enjoy the current moment and look forward to what the future holds. Whenever you do this, you are putting effort into “what if” and “I wish” and “I would have” possibilities. Releasing the past unburdens you and frees you up to be happy.

The key to releasing the past is to forgive yourself for past mistakes, resentments and any difficult experiences that prevent you from moving past these past events and the burden they carry. You release yourself from the burden of past experiences as you embrace the future and your current self, learn the lessons you need to learn in order to move forward with a clearer and lighter mindset.

Although past events can’t be shifted, you can alter the insights, opinions you draw through it.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, , an  Instagram message , a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).