Our Planet, Our Health

Why is World Health Day so significant?

This year’s theme for World Health Day is ‘Our Planet, Our Health’. On April 7th of every year, we explore a thematic global health issue on World Health Day. For many in developed nations, never has our health been under a sharper spotlight.

World Health Day in a South African context

The South African health system is two-tiered with the least advantaged heavily dependent on the under resourced public sector, while the wealthy (many of whom have private medical insurance) use the private sector, thus the socio-economic inequality in South Africa has a direct impact on the multiple dimensions of access to healthcare.

Although, The National Development Plan (NDP) strives that South Africa, by 2030, in pursuit of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) achieve a significant shift in the equity of health services provision, but as South Africans we cannot ignore the fact that healthcare needs vary vastly among the socio-economically advantaged and disadvantaged.

Why should everyone have access to quality healthcare?

By improving the healthcare system so that everyone can gain access, will help to prevent diseases, and improve quality of life.

Mental health is just as important as physical health

Mental and physical health are equally important components of overall health. For example, depression increases the risk for many types of physical health problems, particularly long-lasting conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Several factors can contribute to risk for mental illness, such as:

- Trauma or a history of abuse

- Experiences related to other ongoing medical conditions, such as cancer or diabetes

- Biological factors or chemical imbalances in the brain

- Use of alcohol or drugs

- Having feelings of loneliness or isolation

- Feeling sad or down

- Confused thinking or reduced ability to concentrate

- Excessive fears or worries, or extreme feelings of guilt

- Extreme mood changes of highs and lows

World Health Day also focuses on the importance of educating ourselves and those around us about good overall health. Here are ways that you can do that:

- Plan learning activities for people in the community – Building a sense of community fosters dependability.

- Provide information on ways to have healthy habits – Doing right by your body pays off for your mind as well.

- Do a needs analysis to identify the resources the community needs - Community Needs Assessments seek to gather accurate information representative of the needs of a community.

Consider professional counselling if you are struggling emotionally or if you are feeling depressed.