HPSIG Podcast: The effects of infertility: A clinical psychologist’s perspective
EPISODE 28
HPD Podcasts
HPSIG Podcast: The effects of infertility: A clinical psychologist’s perspective
HPD Webinar: The Importance Of Digital Health Literacy
Health Psychology Webinar
ABSTRACT
Health literacy (HL) relates to knowledge specific to health information and is defined as the ability to access, evaluate, understand and use health information to maintain health and inform health-decision making. It is a multidimensional construct including a range of social and cognitive skills to improve health and wellbeing. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported a significant increase in non-communicable diseases (NCDs): cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, respiratory diseases, and cancers. In South Africa, deaths due to major NCDs increased by 58,7% over 20 years. To combat the burden of noncommunicable diseases preventative strategies should be implemented and this requires HL skills. Insufficient levels of HL ultimately predict poor adherence, limited health enhancing behaviours and poor self-management. To improve HL, access to quality education and health resources are needed. People can access health information from many different sources, but the internet has become primary resource of health information. All information providers, including government and health services should enable access to trustworthy information in a form that is understandable and applicable for all people. In this regard digital health literacy or eHealth Literacy is paramount. By improving access to quality, credible health information and improving eHL skills, people can be empowered to manage and maintain their health helping to combat the burden of NCDs.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
- Gain a better understanding of health literacy and digital health literacy.
- Learn about the importance of health literacy and the implications of poor health literacy
- Explore the value of digital health literacy in the context of online health information use.
- Reflect on health literacy within a South African context and initiatives to improve it
Presenter: Dr SN Mostert
Date: 24 September 2025
Time: 13:00
Dr Sonja Mostert
Dr Sonja Mostert is a registered Research Psychologist currently employed as a senior lecturer in the Department of Psychology at the University of Pretoria. She is passionate about the field of health psychology and her research is mainly focused on health literacy and improving the mental health of people living with diabetes. She is a member of the Health Psychology Division of PsySSA and teaches several undergraduate and postgraduate modules including health psychology to both undergraduate medical students and previously to honours psychology students. Her primary research areas include topics within health psychology, specifically health literacy; mental health and diabetes; health behaviour change; online health information use and the role of psychological factors in chronic conditions.
HPD Webinar: Hope for women with endometriosis – harnessing a digital cognitive behavioural therapy intervention to relieve persistent fatigue
Health Psychology Webinar
Our presenter, Dr. Alexandra Spyrelis, has a keen interest in health and development, with more than 15 years experience in research, monitoring and evaluation, and the development of psychosocial interventions. She recently graduated with a PhD from the Psychology Department at Stellenbosch University and is currently working on a range of projects focused on health innovation, digital health applications, women’s health, and HIV prevention. Her work focuses on bridging the gap between research and practice, with a vision to create accessible and impactful solutions.
Dr Spyrelis’ study assessed the feasibility, acceptability, and exploratory outcomes of a six-session cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) intervention for endometriosis-related persistent fatigue, called Managing Fatigue in Endometriosis (MEND). MEND was delivered virtually to 21 participants by trained Registered Counsellors. A high eligibility rate (83%) and lower enrolment rate (49%) was recorded. Session attendance varied (43%-76%), with a 57% completion and 28% drop out rate, mainly due to countrywide power outages during implementation. The intervention was acceptable to participants and interventionists. While not sufficiently powered to determine effectiveness, findings signal improvements in fatigue severity, depressive symptomology, quality of life, and cognitive and behavioural responses to symptoms, although not all improvements were sustained at follow-up.
Date: 28 May 2025
Time: 13:00
Meeting ID: 343 951 601 864 7
Passcode: ri3FG27w
World Bipolar Day – 30 March 2025
World Bipolar Day: Understanding Bipolar Disorder and Reintegration into Community in South Africa
By Barry Viljoen and Samke Ngcobo
Bipolar is a mood disorder which is characterised by clear and distinct periods of mood found on alternative poles of the mood spectrum. This means that there will be periods when a clear and visible depressed mood is present and that there will be periods of an elevated mood either being a manic or hypomanic episode. While these periods can vary in intensity, it can result in significant disruptions in daily life.
The World Health Organisation currently estimates that 1 in 150 adults live with this disorder, equalling to approximate 40 million people. While within South Africa it is estimated that 3-4% of the population experience this disorder, with it equally affecting men and women.
On this day we attempt to raise awareness about the importance of a greater understanding of bipolar, so that earlier diagnosis and treatment can be accessed by all South Africans. People living with bipolar are discouragingly being subjected to societal challenges, such as exclusion and discrimination. However, the hope is that with public education and awareness campaigns, that the tide will turn. Which will in turn allow for access to adequate treatment and support systems. So that they are able to reclaim their place within society and our communities, through the living of meaningful and fulfilling lives and making meaningful contributions to society.
Bipolar cuts across race, class and other demographic divides. As such it is only through the embrace of a more inclusive mindset, that we can create an environment that fosters, healing, connection and opportunity for all. Steps towards achieving this goal are being paved by brave and outspoken activists, and in this specific piece the personal activist, Dr. Samke Ngcobo, that we as South Africans can challenge the stigma related to and foster open dialogues about mental health.
I am Dr Samke Ngcobo, a medical doctor who has been navigating bipolar disorder type 1 since the early age of 14. 2025 marks 24 years of me living with this disorder and I can safely say that I am not suffering from this condition but I am thriving despite it. I have often sensed an unspoken and subtle conditioning that comes with the role of being a doctor that prohibits vulnerability and struggles. Part of my purpose of founding www.vocalmentality.com was to amplify the voice of the lived experience narrative and also to share practical insights from a professional perspective as someone who has worked in mental healthcare services. My dual perspective is my secret weapon because I choose to use it as my source of empowerment. As a doctor who has had professional exposure to interventions which provide support to mental healthcare users who live with bipolar disorder, I have been cognisant to apply the recommendations that are applicable to managing this illness. As an individual with lived experience with bipolar disorder, I believe that psycho-education has dissipated my denial and lack of insight. This happened when I finally encountered a psychiatrist and psychologist who enabled me to understand my illness comprehensively through psycho-education as their patient while embracing me as someone who is critical to the multidisciplinary team. They were and remain empathetic and are very patient with me even when I feel that I have failed myself through a relapse or the consequences thereof.
◦Psychological support in the form of psychotherapy is part of the bedrock for my sustained mental wellbeing. My weekly Tuesday appointments with my psychologist are sacred to me. They serve as a mirror for me to face myself. At times I look forward to seeing my reflection and other times I dread it. I cannot adequately articulate how critical this intervention has been with my life. This year marks my eighth year with the same therapist who provides psychoanalytic psychotherapy. The term sounds complicated but simply put, this form of therapy has halted the vicious cycle of recurrent relapses related to my bipolar diagnosis. The intoxicating quality of being manic is no longer attractive and its consequences are not worth the short-term appeal of escapism.
◦Stigma comes in various forms and is motivated by various beliefs but I believe that the most difficult form stigma to process is self-stigma because of the shame attached to it, that follows like a dark cloud. I learned very early on in my illness that my condition is something that should exist in hushed conditions of secrecy and was to be hidden at all costs. This was due to the comments by people who did not know that I was diagnosed with the condition. The stereotypes of how people living with the condition look and present felt foreign to me and so I went through a painful path of denial due to lack of insight.
◦When I overcame the self-stigma, the other types of stigma ceased to matter. Many people wonder how I overcame the self-stigma and my reasons are layered and multifaceted. Sadly, my main source of emancipation was birthed five years ago after I experienced a public bipolar episode that led to reputation damage and humiliation that left me bare in my vulnerability.
◦A tangible reminder of the possible debilitating consequences of my illness, was the resultant cognitive impairment that was caused by the severity of my relapse. This led to 6 months of incapacity leave and an extensive rehabilitation programme with my occupational therapist which was complimented by my regular follow ups with my psychiatrist and psychologist.
◦The repercussions of an episode are undermining and the related trauma is underestimated
◦The financial cost of maintaining sustained mental health needs to be addressed because the financial burden of it can led to impaired management of the illness. The pharmacological interventions are expensive with limited support from medical aids. The impact of the side effects needs to be considered as this may potentially lead to non-adherence if communication with the healthcare provider is poor. I recently changed my treatment regimen but unfortunately there are unwanted side effects. I know better than earlier on in my illness that I am not my own doctor but I should consult my psychiatrist to adjust my treatment.
◦My secret weapons: early intervention improves prognosis, psycho-education is critical, my mental health toolkit, disability is preventable and possible to recover from if the right support is in place.
◦Feeling like a I play an integral role in the management of my illness holds me accountable and helps me to feel empowered as opposed to being a victim.
◦We have a long way to go in breaking the stigma related to bipolar disorder but confronting it through psycho-education from people who are thriving with lived experience with the condition is a powerful tool of mental health advocacy.
It is through lived accounts that we humanise conditions seeing them not as definitive and defining but rather people living with a condition. As we mark this day, let us remember that mental health is just as important as physical health. Understanding and compassion are essential for the reintegration and well-being of those living with bipolar disorder, allowing them to thrive within their communities.
World Bipolar Day
Health Psychology Division
Today, on World Bipolar Day, we recognise and acknowledge the strength and resilience of people living with bipolar disorder. The experience of bipolar disorder can significantly affect a person’s sense of reality, sense of self, and can impact their relationships, employment, self-esteem, and physical health. For some, navigating life with bipolar disorder can be a strenuous and isolating journey, highlighting the need for recognition, support, and understanding.
Bipolar disorder is a chronic condition, however, with the correct treatment, people can become aware of their symptoms, manage them, and experience a fulfilling life. People living with bipolar disorder must learn about their triggers, as these can, in turn, initiate mood episodes. Some of the most common triggers include (but are not limited to) stress, conflict with others, lack of sleep, significant loss, seasonal changes, and substance use. The treatment for bipolar disorder includes medication, psychotherapy and lifestyle changes and can aid in fostering a sense of agency and control. Empowering people living with bipolar disorder to take control of their condition may enhance both treatment adherence and a sense of self-efficacy, ultimately contributing to improved well-being.
Nevertheless, it is important to recognize that, despite empowerment efforts, people with bipolar disorder may encounter stigma from their families, communities, healthcare systems, and society. This stigma can lead to barriers in accessing appropriate healthcare and receiving the necessary support. In addition, media representations of bipolar disorder contribute to misconceptions, influencing how people treat and interact with those affected by the condition. The lack of education and understanding about bipolar disorder can negatively affect the empathy and care shown towards those living with the condition. Addressing these misconceptions is important to encourage support and understanding for people living with bipolar disorder.
Equally important is adherence to treatment, which is essential for effective management. There are several strategies beneficial for individuals living with bipolar disorder, including the following:
- Following the prescribed treatment regimen
- Adhering to medical and psychotherapy appointments
- Engaging in psychoeducation about the bipolar diagnosis and the symptoms
- Creating a consistent and healthy sleep schedule
- Learning relaxation and emotion-regulation techniques with the help of a psychologist
- Identifying and limiting exposure to stressful situations
- Avoiding alcohol and illicit substances and limiting (or avoiding) caffeine
- Consulting a healthcare professional about any prescription or over the counter medication before taking them in conjunction with treatment for bipolar disorder
- Establishing a healthy lifestyle by exercising and eating healthy
- Monitoring symptoms by creating a journal that keeps track of mood, and symptoms
- Informing a healthcare professional when changes occur in relation to mood and behavioural patterns.
- Asking for support from family, friends or persons who feel trustworthy
- Spending time with loved ones or joining a support group
To the people living with bipolar disorder
We stand in solidarity with you. While navigating life with bipolar disorder can present many challenges, always remember that your diagnosis does not define your identity. You are valued and your experiences matter.
Health Psychology Webinar: Usability of an mhealth tool to support medication adherence schedules in newly diagnosed tuberculosis patients
Health Psychology Webinar
Usability of an mhealth tool to support medication adherence schedules in newly diagnosed tuberculosis patients: Insights from a mixed methods study
Workshop Details:
- Date: Tuesday, 25 March 2025
- Time: 13:00
- Cost: Free
We invite you to attend a Webinar conducted by the Health Psychology Division of PsySSA. In this webinar, Dr Tebogo Sole-Moloto will present on her doctoral research entitled “Usability of an mhealth tool to support medication adherence schedules in newly diagnosed tuberculosis patients: Insights from a mixed methods study“. Mobile health (mhealth) technologies have the potential to improve medication adherence, but few studies have tested its effectiveness. This study examined the influence of mhealth feedback reminders on TB patients’ medication adherence and to understand through end-user experiences the barriers to adoption and sustainability of an mhealth tool.
**Please fill out the short form below and the webinar link will be sent to you.
For more information, please contact Dr Rizwana Roomaney at rizwanaroomaney@sun.ac.za
Dr Tebogo Sole-Moloto
Dr Sole-Moloto has over 7 years professional-level experience in conducting public health research in TB/HIV and behavioural related contract research projects. Dr Sole-Moloto is also a registered research psychologist with the HPCSA.
HPSIG Podcast: Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
EPISODE 27
HPSIG Podcasts
HPSIG Podcast: Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
