A high school teacher faced significant challenges that affected her ability to sleep and concentrate on her career due to anxiety and stress from the classroom environment. After struggling with negative thoughts and anxiety attacks, she sought help from a sub-divisional hospital, where a doctor referred her to Empower Pacific for counseling, part of a partnership with the Ministry of Health & Medical Services aimed at providing comprehensive mental health care.
The teacher, referred to as the client, began her counseling sessions with Marica Siliwaqa from the NGO. It was revealed that the client had been managing a heavier workload after a co-teacher was transferred, leading to stress and insomnia. Although there were support measures in place, she still found her responsibilities overwhelming.
Siliwaqa worked with the client to reframe her negative thoughts and introduced her to relaxation techniques to mitigate anxiety. The client was encouraged to identify changes in her life that could help her manage her workload better and leverage the support available at her school. Following the counselor’s advice, the client addressed her concerns about her workload with the school head.
After several weeks, Siliwaqa reached out to check on the client’s progress and noted a positive change in her demeanor. The once soft and emotional voice had transformed into a happier tone, indicating that the client had implemented the strategies they discussed and was appreciating the benefits of counseling.
The teacher expressed gratitude for the support, stating, “I’m able to sleep peacefully at night now and have been able to focus on a positive and brighter teaching career. I have a better mindset and am back to enjoying my work every day.”
Empower Pacific provides essential counseling services to individuals experiencing mental health issues, referred by doctors at government-managed hospitals. The World Health Organization underscores the importance of decent work for mental health, highlighting factors that can compromise mental well-being, such as discrimination and excessive workloads.
Empower Pacific offers counseling and social support, accessible through a 24/7 toll-free helpline or in-person visits, in collaboration with the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade.