Blog posts by Post Traumatic Growth Specialist, Sinta Ebersohn, about cultivating physical resilience through all adversities and traumatic experiences.
Why Humans Promise the Sacred When Everything Is at Stake There are moments in human history where language itself feels too thin to hold what is happening. Moments when people stand at the edge of annihilation and reach for something older than strategy and stronger than fear. In those moments humans do not merely plan […]
Vows Made in Battles and War Read More »
When a Child’s Anger Is Not “Bad Behaviour” There is a particular kind of pain a child carries silently. It is the pain of being caught between two parents during a high-conflict divorce and worse, being coached, manipulated or emotionally coerced to reject one of the people they love most in the world. This process
The Link Between Aggression and Parental Alienation Read More »
Honouring the Power of the Sea and the Journey of Resilience November 5 has been designated by the World Tsunami Awareness Day (also referred to as International Tsunami Day) as a moment of shared reflection, communal learning and collective resilience. The designation reminds us that the sea may rise in fury, but our human spirit
A Rare Beacon of Resilience in an Era of Overwhelm In our rapidly shifting landscape of screens, streams, social platforms and ceaseless noise, the concept of media and information literacy shines like a lantern in a storm: guiding us, energising us, scaffolding our ability to respond rather than merely react. For those of us committed
Media & Information Literacy Read More »
Human history is a story of survival. From the ancient plains where our ancestors scanned the horizon for lions, to the digital corridors where modern predators lurk behind screens, the struggle between hunter and hunted has never truly left us. The battlefield may have changed, but the psychology of predation remains deeply woven into the
Are You a Soft Target for Predators? Read More »
In the quiet aftermath of a crisis, where sirens fade and the world resumes its rhythm, a subtle shadow lingers. Imagine empathy as a vast ocean absorbing the tempests of others’ storms, only to churn its own turbulent waves within. This is the essence of vicarious trauma, an invisible companion to those who stand on
Navigating Vicarious Trauma for First Responders Read More »
What it Really Means… There is a common myth woven into modern love stories that conflict can be soothed by passion, that angry words can be silenced by urgent touches and that the sting of disagreement can dissolve in the heat of a bed sheet. We call it “make up sex”. It is portrayed as
The Dangers of Make Up Sex Read More »
The Unfinished Work of Healing A river that was once dammed continues to murmur downstream. So too does the legacy of slavery, a force that began with the brutal subjugation of human beings into systems of exploitation, forged out of greed and sustained by the denial of dignity. Although it has been legally abolished in
Slavery’s Echo Through Centuries Read More »
Across generations and geographies, the measure of a society has always been how it treats its most vulnerable. Children. Elders. Women. Persons with disabilities. The displaced. The poor. Survivors of trauma. These are not fringe members of our human story, they are the thread that reveals the strength or fragility of the social fabric we
Protecting Vulnerable Persons in a Fractured World Read More »
Every year, millions of people across the globe find their lives forever changed by a single word: stroke. It arrives without warning, a sudden disruption to the normal flow of life and what follows is often a turbulent journey through physical loss, emotional upheaval and courageous resilience. For stroke survivors and their families, it marks
Stroke: Suffering from the Consequences – A Journey of Loss, Love and Hope Read More »
The Role They Play in Post Traumatic Growth In a world that rushes relentlessly, there exists an ancient companion who walks at the rhythm of healing, listens without judgment and mirrors the human soul with unflinching honesty. The horse, a majestic, primal and intuitive animal, is not just a relic of our shared past but
Each June, the world softly turns its gaze toward a deeply human experience. Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is not only a call to action but a call to presence. A time to remember those who are slowly forgetting. A time to learn, to understand and to honour the ones living in a shifting reality. And a
In the Fading Light: A Love Letter for Alzheimer’s Awareness Month Read More »
A celebration of power, purpose and legacy Throughout human history, the female body has been revered as the sacred vessel through which life is conceived, nurtured and brought forth into the world. Yet while much attention has been given to a woman’s fertile years, the less spoken but equally vital transition of menopause is often
Menopause: The Awakening of the Wise Woman Within Read More »
The Silent Weapon of War In recognition of the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict | 19 June In the shadows of war, far beyond the bombs and battlefields, lies another battleground: intimate, brutal and often invisible. Here, the weapon is not artillery, but the human body. Sexual violence in conflict
Sexual Violence in Conflict Read More »
It Takes a Village to Protect a Childhood Every child deserves a childhood filled with play, learning, safety and hope. But for 160 million children worldwide, that dream is stolen by the harsh reality of child labour. Today, on World Day Against Child Labour (June 12), we come together as a global community of parents,
More Than a Trend – A Lifestyle of Resilience, Growth and Opportunity In a world that has transformed dramatically over the past century, few shifts have been as impactful, far-reaching and life-affirming as the global movement toward working from home. Once a privilege for a select few or a necessity for rural artisans, remote work
April 21 marks World Creativity and Innovation Day, a United Nations-designated day to celebrate the transformative power of creative thinking in solving global challenges and advancing sustainable development. For those navigating life’s adversities – whether as parents, professionals or individuals seeking post-traumatic growth – cultivating creativity and innovation is not just a luxury but a
Embrace Creativity and Innovation for Resilience Read More »
Each year, World Immunisation Week in April, reminds us of the extraordinary global health achievement that vaccination represents. Yet, it also opens an important dialogue about personal rights, scientific discovery, societal responsibility and the undeniable power of informed decision-making. A Brief History of Vaccines: Humanity’s Battle Against Disease The story of immunisation stretches back centuries.
Immunisation: Honouring the Journey, Embracing Informed Choice Read More »
A Legacy Written in Ink Long before digital downloads and audiobooks, the story of humanity was etched into clay tablets, papyrus scrolls and parchment. The earliest known book, The Epic of Gilgamesh, dates back over 4,000 years, offering a glimpse into ancient Sumerian life and the existential questions we still ponder today. Across cultures and
Books Build Resilience Through Life’s Toughest Storms Read More »
The Universal Message of Easter and the Power of Post-Traumatic Growth As Easter weekend wraps us in its gentle embrace, we’re invited into a moment of reflection. For many, Easter is a sacred celebration rooted in the Christian tradition – the story of sacrifice, death and miraculous resurrection. But even beyond religious beliefs, Easter offers
Easter: Rising Again Read More »
April 14th is Ex Spouse Day. I want to pause and honour something few are brave enough to talk about, let alone commemorate. This day isn’t just about acknowledging someone you once shared a life with. It’s about making space for the grief, the growth, the gut-wrenching shifts and the glimmers of healing that come
Ex Spouse: Honouring the Wounds and Wisdom of What Was Read More »
The Dark Reality of Intimate Partner Abuse and the Journey to Freedom When we hear the word toxic, what do we really mean? Is it just someone who’s bad for us? Someone who drains our energy, dismisses our feelings or fails to respect our boundaries? Or is there something more sinister lurking beneath the surface
Every year on April 2nd, the world comes together to observe Autism Awareness Day, a crucial opportunity to celebrate neurodiversity, dispel harmful myths and advocate for inclusion and understanding. For many families, educators and individuals on the autism spectrum, this day is more than just a symbolic gesture – it is a reminder of the
Autism: Embracing Neurodiversity with Compassion Read More »
Why a Waste-Free Future Matters More Than Ever Waste is any material, substance or byproduct discarded after primary use. It includes food scraps, plastic packaging, electronic waste and even wasted time and energy. Every year, billions of tons of waste are generated worldwide, much of which ends up polluting our environment, harming wildlife and contributing
Every year on March 24th, the world unites to commemorate World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, raising awareness about one of the deadliest infectious diseases in human history. Despite being preventable and treatable, TB continues to affect millions of people worldwide, causing suffering, disrupting families and burdening healthcare systems. Understanding TB, making informed lifestyle choices and embracing
Tuberculosis: A Call to Action for Healthier Lives Read More »
As we mark 30 years of democracy, South Africa’s journey in recognising, respecting and protecting human rights is one of both progress and challenge. Since 1994, we have made significant strides in establishing equality, freedom and dignity as fundamental rights for all citizens. Yet, as we reflect on our history, it is crucial to ask:
Human Rights Day: Upholding Dignity and Fostering Resilience Read More »
The Vital Role of Our Kidneys and the Path to Lifelong Health Every year, on the second Thursday of March, we come together to observe World Kidney Day – a global campaign aimed at raising awareness about the importance of our kidneys to overall health and reducing the frequency and impact of kidney disease. In
The Truth About Obesity and Why It’s a Global Crisis We Must Tackle Now Obesity is not merely a matter of appearance; it is a serious medical condition that threatens the health, well-being and longevity of millions worldwide. Defined by an excessive accumulation of body fat that increases the risk of various diseases, obesity has
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent, unprovoked seizures resulting from abnormal electrical activity in the brain. These seizures can manifest in various forms, from brief lapses in attention to prolonged convulsions. Globally, epilepsy affects over 70 million people, making it one of the most common neurological conditions. The perception and treatment of epilepsy
If you are reading this and facing cancer, I want you to know that you are not alone. I have been in your shoes. I was diagnosed with cancer, endured the uncertainty, the treatments, the exhaustion and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it. Now, six years in remission, I can tell you that while
Cancer – A Message of Strength and Hope Read More »
Pregnancy can be a life-altering event, and when it is unplanned or unwanted, the challenges multiply exponentially. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they represent distinct experiences that shape the decisions, emotions, and consequences faced by both parents and the child. Understanding the difference is essential in providing compassionate support and guidance. The Difference
Unplanned or Unwanted Pregnancy Read More »
“Slavery is not an issue of the past. It’s an issue of today.” – Kailash Satyarthi January marks International Human Trafficking Month, and 30 July is World Day Against Trafficking in Humans – a time to shine a light on one of the darkest corners of our global society. Human trafficking, often referred to as
Human rights are the inherent entitlements that every person possesses simply by virtue of being human. They transcend race, gender, nationality and socio-economic status, forming the cornerstone of dignity, freedom, equality and justice in society. On International Human Rights Day, observed annually on December 10, we are reminded of the universal need to protect and
Commemorating International Day of Persons with Disabilities (3 December) Living with a disability can be one of life’s greatest challenges, but it can also be a journey of strength, transformation and discovery. Each year, on 3 December, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities serves as a reminder to celebrate the resilience and contributions of
Living with a Disability Read More »
The Misconception of Gender Based Violence: A Call for Inclusivity and Balance The term Gender Based Violence (GBV) has become synonymous with discussions around violence, particularly domestic violence. However, the concept often focuses primarily on the plight of women, overshadowing the equally critical experiences of male victims and the nuanced dynamics of violence. The term
Violence is a Human Issue, not a Gendered one. Read More »
World Diabetes Day, observed annually on November 14th, serves as a global platform to raise awareness about diabetes, its prevention and effective management. Established by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1991, this day commemorates the birth anniversary of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin with Dr Charles Best
Living with Diabetes Read More »
Movember, celebrated each November, is a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness of men’s health issues, particularly prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health concerns, including suicide prevention. Originating in Australia in 2003, Movember began with a fun challenge among friends to grow moustaches, which quickly transformed into an international movement focused on changing the
October marks Eye Care Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the importance of vision, raise awareness of eye health and address the challenges individuals face when losing their eyesight. As a resilience practitioner and post-traumatic growth specialist, I’ve had the privilege of guiding individuals through some of life’s most difficult transitions. One of these
Eye Care, Vision Loss and How to Protect Our Sight Read More »
A Call to Action for Healing and Growth October is recognised as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to raise consciousness about a pervasive issue affecting individuals and families worldwide. Domestic violence (DV) transcends geographical, cultural and socio-economic boundaries, leaving emotional, psychological and physical scars on its victims. In this post, I’ll explore the various
Mental Health Awareness Day, observed annually on October 10th, serves as a global reminder of the importance of mental well-being. In a world where stress, anxiety and mental health challenges are on the rise, this day urges us to break the stigma, encourage open conversations and promote strategies for better mental health. This blog post
Mental Health – Prioritise Your Mind Read More »
A Path Toward Global Peace, Resilience and the Complex Reality of Violence “Non-violence is the greatest force at the disposal of mankind. It is mightier than the mightiest weapon of destruction devised by the ingenuity of man.” – Mahatma Gandhi On October 2nd, the world comes together to observe the International Day of Non-Violence, honouring
On International Sign Language Day (23 September), we celebrate a powerful form of communication that bridges the gap between the hearing and deaf communities. Sign language is not just a tool for communication; it’s a symbol of inclusion, equality and human connection. To understand the significance of sign language, let’s delve into its history, examine
World Sexual Health Day, observed annually on September 4th, is a crucial reminder of the importance of sexual health in our lives. It is a day dedicated to breaking the silence around sexuality, promoting sexual rights and encouraging healthy sexual practices. Understanding and fostering healthy sexuality is essential not only for individual well-being but also
Healthy Sexuality in Relationships Read More »
On August 30th, the world observes International Day of the Disappeared, a day to remember those who have vanished without a trace, leaving their loved ones in a state of enduring anguish. Disappearances, whether due to conflict, abduction or other mysterious circumstances, create a unique kind of suffering – an unresolved grief that lingers indefinitely.
International Day of the Disappeared: Honouring the Lost & Supporting those Left Behind Read More »
Understanding Trauma and Cultivating Resilience Terrorism has scarred the world, leaving a lasting impact on individuals, communities and entire cultures. Over the past century, acts of terrorism have not only claimed lives but also inflicted deep emotional, psychological and social wounds. The trauma caused by terrorism can be debilitating, with effects that can linger for
Acts of Terrorism and Their Impact on Individuals Read More »
As the world comes together to celebrate the Olympic Games, we are reminded of the essence of human achievement, excellence and the relentless pursuit of greatness. The Olympic Games are not merely a showcase of athletic prowess; they embody the spirit of meritocracy – a system where individuals are rewarded based on their abilities, effort
Meritocracy vs Mediocrity Read More »
International Self-Compassion Day, celebrated annually on July 20th, is a profound opportunity for individuals worldwide to pause and reflect on the importance of self-kindness, especially in the face of adversity. For many, trauma and hardship can leave deep scars, but through self-compassion, we can begin the journey towards healing and growth. Understanding Self-Compassion Self-compassion, a
Self-Compassion: A Path to Post-Traumatic Growth Read More »
The Wellness Approach is an Essential Complement to the Conventional Biomedical Model In recent years, chronic lifestyle diseases have become a significant public health concern, driven by modern societal pressures, poor lifestyle choices and environmental factors. The conventional biomedical model, focused primarily on diagnosing and treating diseases, is indispensable. However, to tackle the root causes
Why Wellness is Essential Read More »
Empowering the Next Generation In today’s rapidly evolving world, our youth need more than just academic knowledge to thrive. The complexities of the digital age, the interconnectedness of global societies and the demands of future careers require a diverse set of life skills. These essential life skills are crucial for personal growth, responsible citizenship and
Essential Life Skills for Today’s Youth Read More »
Ensuring Resilience and Growth Through Safe Food Practices In our interconnected world, food safety is a fundamental pillar of public health, socio-economic development and well-being. June 7th marks World Food Safety Day, a time to reflect on the importance of safe food practices and their impact on our lives. This day, established by the United