In October 2019, I stood at my 10th-floor office window after work, contemplating an escape from what felt like a bottomless pit of stress and worry. In that moment, a thought crossed my mind: “Will my son grow up thinking he was not enough reason for me to choose life?" A few weeks later, a colleague tragically took that life-ending decision, jumping from the 16th floor.
It left us reeling with trauma and grief. It made me realise how so many of us are living in survival mode. For years, survival mode was my permanent address. I carried silent grief until I reached 134kg – a physical symptom of a deeper emotional burden.
During those dark moments, I reached out to the City's Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). I am deeply grateful for the professionalism of our EAP officials. Having that confidential, compassionate support gave me the safety I needed to begin my healing work.
Healing requires us to listen to our bodies. In September 2025, I intentionally chose to move again. I didn't start in a gym; I found refuge in the backyard garden of my rental home. Surrounded by nature, I laid out my exercise mat, practicing Qi Gong, Tai Chi and rhythmic breathing. Movement became my medicine, leading to a 40kg natural transformation. I call this renewal my “Bloomorphisis" – proof that when we nurture our minds, physical strength returns.
While my breakthrough began in a backyard, public green spaces belong to all of us. Our city's parks are free, accessible sanctuaries across all seven regions of Johannesburg. Whether taking a barefoot walk on the grass, sitting under a tree or practising mindful breathing, our parks offer space to ground ourselves, practice self-healing and take the break we deserve.
This is precisely why the City of Johannesburg, through its entity, Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), is launching the “Joburg Cares: Parks for Healing" campaign throughout October for National Mental Health Awareness Month. This campaign reframes our public spaces and mental wellness as essential civic care.
Throughout October, we are rolling out a series of supportive digital and broadcast programmes – including guided mindfulness tips across our 10-channel digital ecosystem, internal building screen broadcasts, community radio PSAs in local languages, and direct signposting to City Primary Health clinics and Employee Assistance structures. I share my journey to remind every colleague and resident that you do not have to carry your burdens alone. Seeking help is never a sign of weakness; it is the ultimate act of self-love and courage.
If you are struggling, please reach out to the professional support structures available to you. Speak to our internal EAP team, contact the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), Lifeline, or visit your local City Primary Health clinic. Your life matters. Your peace matters. Your City cares.
EMERGENCY HELPLINES & SUPPORT DIRECTORY:
SADAG 24/7 Helpline (Toll-Free): 0800 567 567 | SMS: 31393
Lifeline South Africa: 0861 322 322
City of Johannesburg EAP: Contact List
CoJ Social Development & Primary Health Clinics: Contact your regional municipal office.
Written by Poppy Louw
07/10/2026
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