According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), a staggering 75% of those who commit suicide in South Africa are men.

Furthermore, a UNICEF U-Report poll found that 60% of South African youth needed mental health support in the past year, with many not seeking help due to stigma.

Understanding the Stigma and Its Impact 

The stigma surrounding mental health often stems from misconceptions. There's a prevailing notion that mental health challenges are a sign of weakness or lack of character. This can lead to feelings of shame, isolation and fear of judgment, preventing men and youth from seeking the support they desperately need.

The consequences of unaddressed mental health issues are severe. Depression, anxiety and other conditions can significantly impact a person's academic performance, work productivity and relationships. In extreme cases, they can even lead to self-harm or suicide.

Breaking the Silence: Strategies for Change

Shifting the narrative around mental health requires a multi-pronged approach. Here are some key strategies:

Open and honest conversations
Normalising discussions about mental health is vital. Encourage open communication within families, schools and workplaces. Sharing lived experiences can be incredibly powerful in breaking down stigma.

Positive male role models
Men who openly discuss their mental health struggles can be powerful agents of change. South Africa has a wealth of talented male figures — athletes, musicians, leaders — who can use their platforms to promote mental wellbeing.

Education and awareness campaigns
Targeted campaigns can educate both men and youth about mental health, dispelling myths and highlighting the importance of seeking help. This can involve utilising social media, workshops and community outreach programmes. There is a need for a collaborative effort from organisations in South Africa.

Addressing gender norms
Some of the traditional notions of masculinity often discourage men from expressing emotions or seeking help. Promoting healthy masculinity that embraces emotional vulnerability is crucial.

Accessibility of services
Making mental health services readily available and affordable is essential. Expanding telehealth options and increasing mental health professionals, particularly those specialising in men's and youth's needs, can significantly improve access.

Youth-Specific Strategies

Young people face unique mental health challenges, often navigating academic pressure, social media anxiety and uncertain futures.

Here's how we can better support them:

Creating safe spaces
Schools and youth centres must create safe spaces where youth can feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns and accessing resources.

Peer support programmes
Building peer support networks can be incredibly valuable for youth. Training peer mentors to identify signs of distress and provide support can make a significant difference.

Digital literacy
Equipping young people with digital literacy skills can help them navigate the online world healthily and identify credible mental health resources online.

Mental health is not a luxury, it is a fundamental right. By fostering open conversations, dismantling stigma and ensuring accessible support services, we can create a South Africa where everyone, regardless of age or gender, feels empowered to prioritise their mental wellbeing.

It's time to break the silence and prioritise mental health for a healthier and brighter future for all South Africans.

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*Image courtesy of Canva