Maj Lerato Galesitoe
Acting Head of Department Psychiatry at 1 Military Hospital
W
hen we talk about dynamite coming in small packages, we're talking about Dr. Galesitoe. She was born and raised in Ga-Rankuwa, north of Pretoria. Her ability to stay focused on her life goals is largely attributed to her parents, who instilled in her a deep appreciation for family, education, and respect for human dignity. Growing up in the township was a challenge for most young people, but her parents' love and support kept her on track. She completed her MBCHB in 2002 at MEDUNSA, now known as Sefako Makgatho University. Later, in April 2019, she joined the military as a medical doctor. In 2020, she completed her specialization in Psychiatry and was appointed as the acting head of the department shortly after.
strategies to manage stress and unwind. These include exercising, connecting with family and loved ones, spending time in nature, taking solo trips, and avoiding workrelated discussions once she has finished her workday. The doctor also offers advice on mental health, emphasizing that daily lifestyle choices impact both mental and physical health. She encourages people to try new things, engage in regular exercise, maintain a healthy diet, get quality sleep, and abstain from drug and excessive alcohol use. These lifestyle changes can help manage conditions like mild depression and anxiety.
One might wonder why a doctor would choose to specialize in this field, considering how daunting it can seem. She explains her motivation, stating, "As a psychiatrist, one has the privilege of encountering patients in their most vulnerable states, hearing their deepest fears, worries, and fantasies. Psychiatry is unique as it looks at health holistically, considering how biological, social, spiritual, political, psychological, occupational, and financial factors impact health. It's a diverse speciality that allows one to work in various settings, from schools, prisons, hospitals, and communities to corporate, sports, and even the military, where mental health is crucial for those who undertake challenging tasks."
Empowering women is a cause close to her heart. In honor of Women's Month, she shared her motto for women's empowerment, stating that she lives by the saying "do unto others." She emphasizes that women should remember they are not alone, be kind to themselves, set small achievable goals, celebrate small victories, and empower themselves through skills and knowledge acquisition.
Maj (Dr)Lerato Galesitoe military psychiatrist at 1 Military Hospital.
Working in a psychiatry department on a daily basis can be emotionally taxing, she employs various
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Article & Photograph by 1 Military Hospital Corp Comm
