By Staff Reporter
In a country with many sociopolitical and economic problems, there is a concerning mental health epidemic among young people. Recent reports indicate that some of the rising mental health conditions that young people suffer from include anxiety, sadness, and suicidal thoughts.
This poses a huge question ‘how can society respond to and reverse this escalating problem?
Tshwane University of Technology TUT, Polokwane Campus’s Clinical Psychologist Boitumelo Shayi, talked to Limpopo Insider laying down some of the salient points to address this phenomenon.
Status quo of mental health among young people in SA
The mental health landscape among young people in South Africa is concerning, with high rates of anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. Many young people are struggling to cope with the demands of modern life, social media pressures, and socio-economic challenges.
Contributing factors to mental health issues
Factors that are contributory to the plight of mental health includes:
- Socio-economic challenges: poverty, unemployment, and inequality contribute to stress, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness,
- Trauma and violence: exposure to violence, abuse, and trauma can have long-lasting effects on mental health,
- Social media and technology: cyberbullying, online harassment, and unrealistic expectations can negatively impact self-esteem and mental well-being,
- Lack of access to mental health resources: inadequate funding, shortage of mental health professionals, and stigma surrounding mental illness can prevent young people from seeking help, and
- Broken families, as well as child headed families.
Are we doing enough as a country to respond to and reverse this escalating problem?
Unfortunately, no. While there are efforts to address mental health, more needs to be done to address the scale and complexity of the issue.
More research on cost effective approaches to mental health amongst youth is needed. One of the good examples is using sports as a vehicle to challenge mental issues.
Role of the key stakeholders to bring an aid to this scourge
Government and Community members
- Government must increase funding for mental health services by employing sufficient mental health practitioners in marginalised communities.
- Communities on the ground must go all out to promote awareness, reduce stigma, and provide support networks for individuals struggling with mental health issues.
Important considerations for communities when dealing with mental health cases
- Approach mental health with empathy and understanding,
- Reduce stigma and promote awareness,
- Encourage open conversations and listening without judgment,
- Open dialogues in the media about mental issues, and
- Utilise sport as a vehicle to tackle mental issues through research-based cost-effective programmes.
There is no quick fix for the mental health catastrophe that South Africa’s youth are currently experiencing. However, it necessitates immediate attention and a complex strategy.