C-TECH Celebrates Success in Empowering the HIV Community through Health Education Sessions
C-TECH Celebrates Success in Empowering the HIV Community through Health Education Sessions
June 19, 2023
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C-TECH Celebrates Success in Empowering the HIV Community through Health Education Sessions

The Caribbean Training and Education Centre for Health (C-TECH) has announced the successful conclusion of its impactful HIV health education sessions. This programme has played a vital role in providing essential information on HIV and other health-related topics to the HIV community and other stakeholders. Over the span of three years, C-TECH, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Wellness Jamaica and the Jamaica Network for Seropositive (JN+), has been at the forefront of delivering valuable knowledge and resources to address the unique challenges faced by people living with HIV (PLHIV).

Initially launched in April 2020 as a platform to offer MOHW-approved COVID-19 information to PLHIV and their care and support teams, the programme expanded due to its growing audience and widespread interest. Recognising the economic losses and reduced access to health services during the pandemic, C-TECH actively collaborated with partners at the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) and the Jamaican Network of Seropositives (JN+) to organise a series of monthly virtual information sessions via the Zoom web platform. These sessions focused on compiling and exchanging best practises and information, with a particular emphasis on COVID-19 precautions, coping strategies, the importance of adherence to ARTs, and accessing HIV service delivery during the pandemic.

The initiative received funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through a grant awarded to the International Training and Education Centre for Health (I-TECH). This support has been instrumental in ensuring the successful implementation and continuity of the programme, enabling C-TECH to reach and empower individuals across Jamaica.

“We are thrilled to have been at the forefront of delivering these Health Education sessions, which, over the past three years, have played a pivotal role in disseminating crucial information and resources to PLHIV and their support networks,” expressed Patricia Hilton, Clinical Programme Manager at C-TECH. “Through our partnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness and JN+, we have created a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, addressed the challenges posed by COVID-19, and fostered a stronger understanding of HIV health issues among PLHIV and caregivers. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to HRSA and I-TECH for their unwavering support in making this initiative possible.”

The success of these virtual sessions highlights C-TECH’s commitment, alongside its partners, to addressing the evolving needs of PLHIV during the pandemic and beyond. With its range of programmes and interventions, C-TECH will continue to empower individuals with the knowledge and resources needed to achieve positive health outcomes.

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A stressful work environment can contribute to several health issues both mentally and physically, these may include headache, insomnia, stomach-aches, anxiety, difficulty concentrating high blood pressure, and a weakened immune system. 

It is important then that we take meaningful steps to ensure that we are manging our own personal space to avoid some of these issues. Our assumption, perception and expectation affect how we react to others and life situations and ultimately how we view how jobs. When assumption, expectations and perceptions are not met, we respond through our thought’s feelings and behaviours. It is important to practice positive thinking as our thoughts affects how we feel, and our feelings affects how we behave.

Here are some tips to help you with your work environment:

  • Seek for clarity instead of trying to convince yourself of what others are thinking
  • Refrain from personalisation, not everything mentioned is a direct attack on you
  • Invest in self care
  • Set limits
  • Proper nutrition
  • Connect with people

We often here people expressing how stressed they are feeling or how over worked they are, not having enough time to do the things they like such as spending time with friend and families or even a few self-care activities. We have watch families suffer due to long working hours as well as our jobs due to loss of interest and enthusiasm resulting from burnout. 

When workers are balanced and happy, they are more productive, take fewer sick days, and are more likely to stay in their jobs.

Here is how you can accomplish work life balance

At work    

  • Set manageable goals each day. 
  • Be efficient with your time at work. 
  • Take five. 
  • Communicate effectively.
  • Give yourself a break. 

         At Home

  • Don’t over commit. 
  • Get support. 
  • Stay active. 
  • Treat your body right. 
  • Get help if you need it. 

Tameca Dempster-Mattocks is an accomplished Associate Counseling Psychologist and Financial Counsellor, holding an M.Sc. Degree in Counselling and Social Work from Mico University College, along with multiple certifications in mental health from the University of Washington.

 

Currently, she holds the positions of Regional Psychologist – NERHA and Mental Health Program Coordinator at the Caribbean Training & Education Center for Health (C-TECH). Tameca has successfully managed regional mental health projects, overseeing and leading impactful initiatives that positively influence the mental well-being of individuals in the region. 

 

With a passion for community service, Tameca actively contributes to various private and charitable organizations, dedicating her time as a volunteer to support community members and at-risk youth.

Contact us for mental health support services

Telephone #: 8764161449

Email: wellness@ctech-caribbean.org