Have a question for the doctor? Email us at [email protected] and your question could
feature in the next issue of B-Living.
Hi Doctor
My name is Bheki. I’ve been smoking for the past 25 years.
I’m at a point in my life where I wish that I did not smoke.
Some mornings I wake up short of breath and I’m worried
about my health. With a new year ahead I’m trying to quit,
but it’s easier said than done. Please help.
Dear Bheki
It's not easy to quit smoking, but it is possible! Let me explain.
Smokers live in an almost constant state of nicotine withdrawal,
from the time they have their first cigarette of the day until the
last. As soon as you put out a cigarette, the level of nicotine
in your bloodstream begins to drop and soon you’ll be craving
another cigarette.
A good deterrent is to remember the negative health effects
every time you light up. The problems of smoking might not be
visible immediately, but in your case your shortness of breath
should flag some red lights.
Bonitas offers wellness and preventative care benefits on all
our plans to help our members lead healthier and happier lives.
First you need to complete a wellness screening, after which
you can access the Wellness Extender Benefit to use for (in your
case) a programme to stop smoking. This benefit is in addition
to your savings and day-to-day benefits, so you get more value
for money. Good luck kicking the habit.
Hi Doc
I’ve been struggling with mild to moderate depression
and anxiety over the years. I’ve been on and off
anti-depressants and have changed doctors and therapists
numerous times. A colleague recently told me about the
Bonitas Mental Health Programme. Do you think it will
help?
Regards
James
Hi James
To start off, my answer is yes and I’ll tell you why just now. When
you have depression, it is always best to get medical help so you
can recover quicker and have better control of your health and
life; otherwise you run the risk of destroying your relationships
and life.
The Bonitas Mental Health Programme aims to improve your
quality of life and empowers you to manage your condition
more effectively. Once you’ve enrolled on the programme,
a dedicated Care Manager will be assigned to you to assist
you. Your Care Manager will collaborate with your doctor or
therapist as needed, to ensure you get the support you need.
The Bonitas Mental Health Programme is available to Bonitas
Medical Aid members who are on the BonComprehensive,
BonClassic, Standard or Standard Select plans. To find out more
about this programme, call us on 0860 106 155 or send an
email to [email protected].
Disclaimer: The advice included above is for information purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor or medical practitioner. We strongly urge
you to consult with your family practitioner before embarking on a health treatment or programme. All information has been checked by a Bonitas Clinical Adviser.
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