Prioritising self-care: a guide for men and dads

Inaworld where the lines between work and personal life are often blurred, Kersha Singh, an occupational therapist at Netcare Akeso Kenilworth, advises men, and dads, to have a prioritised approach to work-life balance, emphasising the significant impact on mental and emotional wellne

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Q: How does a work-life balance directly impact mental and emotional wellness?

A: A balanced life has a positive influence over an individual's quality of life, and work-life balance is vital for maintaining mental and emotional wellness. Prioritising self-care helps us manage stress better, and this is the foundation for overall improvement in wellbeing.

When we effectively manage our time between work, personal activities and rest, we are more likely to feel emotionally regulated, and less likely to feel overwhelmed by life’s daily stressors and challenges.

The positive effect of this balance can make life feel more manageable, wholesome and fulfilling.

People who value work-life balance tend to schedule restorative, nourishing and self-care activities after hours and this has a positive ripple effect on stress management, productivity and burnout prevention.

Q: What are the wellness risks of overworking, and how can they be mitigated?

A: Overworking often leads to increased levels of stress, fatigue, anxiety, and, in chronic cases, even burnout.

Chronic stress impairs emotional regulation, reduces cognitive functioning, strains relationships and can manifest in physical, mental, emotional and overall decline in wellness.