PsySSA Commemorates World Autism Awareness Day 2026

PsySSA Commemorates World Autism Awareness Day 2026

PsySSA Commemorates World Autism Awareness Day 2026

 

On World Autism Awareness Day, PsySSA brings together contributions from the Division for Research and Methodology (DRM) and the Registered Counsellors and Psychometrists (RCP) to deepen understanding of autism across contexts.

Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference – shaped not only by individual experiences, but also by the environments, systems, and relationships that surround each person. These contributions highlight the importance of:

  • Challenging persistent myths and misconceptions
  • Recognising diverse ways of communicating, learning, and relating
  • Understanding the links between sensory experiences, anxiety, and emotional regulation
  • Supporting caregivers, educators, and practitioners with practical, evidence-informed strategies

In the South African context, meaningful awareness must move beyond information toward inclusion, accessibility, and dignity – ensuring that autistic individuals are supported across the lifespan, in schools, families, workplaces, and communities.

This collection invites us to reflect, learn, and act – centering lived experience and strengthening compassionate, contextually relevant care.

 

CEPD Webinar – What does it mean to be an Ecotherapy Nature-Connection Practitioner?

CEPD Webinar – What does it mean to be an Ecotherapy Nature-Connection Practitioner?

“What does it mean to be an Ecotherapy Nature-Connection Practitioner?”

Hosted by the PsySSA Climate, Environment and Psychology Division

 

Webinar Details:

  • Date: Tuesday, 31 March 2026
  • Time: 14:00
  • Online Via Teams
  • Cost: Free

Presented by:
Penni Cox

Penni Cox – Psychologist and Eco-therapy nature connection practitioner. Penni Cox is on a mission to change the narrative of wellbeing simply being a matter of “business as usual”. She challenges the status quo of “tick box” boardroom mental health talks, and that therapy only happens indoors, and proposes an alternate way to bring wellbeing back to individuals, teams and communities – collaborating with nature as the therapist.

PsySSA Commemorates Bipolar Day – 30 March 2026

PsySSA Commemorates Bipolar Day – 30 March 2026

World Bipolar Day 2026 – “Bipolar Strong”

 

Today, PsySSA joins the global community in commemorating World Bipolar Day under the theme “Bipolar Strong.”

Living with bipolar disorder is not a weakness – it is a journey of resilience, courage, and ongoing navigation of complex emotional, cognitive, and social realities. While often misunderstood as simple “mood swings,” bipolar disorder is a serious condition involving profound shifts in energy, sleep, and emotional regulation that can deeply affect daily life.

This year, contributions from PsySSA’s Health Psychology Division (HPD) and Decolonising Psychology Division (DPD) invite us to deepen how we think about mental health.

This World Bipolar Day, we call on all sectors of society to:

  • Challenge stigma
  • Strengthen systems of care
  • Centre lived experiences
  • Advance equitable and accessible mental health support

 

Bipolar Disorder and Mental Health Justice: A Decolonial Reflection for World Bipolar Day
By: Kim Gabriel-Dixon

This reflection explores bipolar disorder through a decolonial lens, inviting a broader understanding of mental health that recognises the social conditions, relationships, and structural realities shaping people’s lives. It encourages compassionate awareness while highlighting the importance of dignity, justice, and community care in supporting those living with bipolar disorder.

 

Today we commemorate World Bipolar Day under the theme: “BIPOLAR STRONG”

World Bipolar Day is a reminder that living with bipolar disorder is not a weakness, but a journey of resilience, strength, and courage. The theme ‘Bipolar Strong’ celebrates individuals who navigate the highs and lows while continuing to lead meaningful lives, challenge stigma, and advocate for better mental health support.

Every journey with bipolar disorder is different, shaped by personal, social, and structural factors. To transform mental health care, we must look beyond the diagnosis and see the person before the patient.

Here in South Africa, research continues to strengthen our understanding of bipolar disorder care by linking policy, clinical practice, and patient realities. They highlight the importance of effective medication management, multidisciplinary support, familial support, and national treatment guidelines in shaping care and realities for those living with bipolar disorder:

This World Bipolar Day, let us stand in solidarity, challenge stigma, and support those living with bipolar disorder.

Together, we are #BipolarStrong

Abstract Submission Extension – PsySSA Annual Psychology Congress 2026

Abstract Submission Extension – PsySSA Annual Psychology Congress 2026

Abstract Submission Extension!

 

Due to strong interest, PsySSA is excited to announce a final extension for abstract submissions to the 30th Annual Psychology Congress 2026 – no fooling!

If you missed the original deadline, this is your last opportunity – the extension is open for a limited time only.

New Submission Deadline: 10 April 2025

We look forward to receiving your abstracts for #PsySSACongress2026.

Submit now before it’s too late!

Job Opportunity for Registered Clinical or Counselling Psychologists

Job Opportunity for Registered Clinical or Counselling Psychologists

 

 

Exciting opportunity for registered Clinical or Counselling Psychologists! Join an established practice in Umhlanga Rocks offering flexibility, strong referral networks, and a supportive professional environment. Explore both Associate and Part-Time roles and take the next step in your private practice journey.

Interested? Please mail a brief CV, cover letter, HPCSA details, references to: michael@mjtheron.com

Registered Clinical / Counselling Psychologist (Part-Time)

Registered Clinical / Counselling Psychologist (Associate)