Government urges support for men battling mental health challenges
Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has called for urgent action to address the growing mental health crisis affecting men and boys across South Africa.
Sindisiwe Chikunga has raised concerns over what she described as a growing mental health crisis affecting men and boys across South Africa.
According to the South African Government News Agency, Chikunga called for urgent intervention from communities, institutions and society to address what she termed ‘a silent national emergency’.
In a statement released on Sunday, May 10, the minister said many men continue to suffer in silence because of harmful social norms that discourage emotional vulnerability, help-seeking behaviour and open discussions around mental health.
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“Too many men are carrying emotional pain in silence. Depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse and social isolation are affecting men across all age groups, communities and economic backgrounds. We must break the stigma that says men must suffer quietly,” she said.
Chikunga identified economic hardship, unemployment, social pressures, family breakdown, violence, substance abuse and unresolved trauma as some of the major factors placing psychological strain on men, particularly young men.
She also highlighted limited access to mental health services, especially in rural and underserved communities, as a growing concern.
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The minister warned that untreated mental health conditions among men could contribute to broader societal problems, including substance dependency, family instability, violence, crime and suicide.
“Mental health is not a weakness. Seeking help is not a sign of failure. We need to create safe spaces where men and boys can speak openly, heal and access support without fear of judgment,” said Chikunga.
The department has urged families, schools, workplaces, faith-based organisations, civil society groups, traditional leaders, media practitioners and government institutions to work together to promote positive masculinity, emotional well-being, and mental health awareness among men and boys.
Chikunga also called on employers and educational institutions to strengthen psychosocial support systems and improve access to affordable and inclusive mental health services.
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She stressed that addressing men’s mental health is essential in building safer families and communities rooted in dignity, equality, accountability and non-violence.
“A society that ignores the emotional well-being of men risks deepening cycles of pain, violence, and hopelessness. Healing our nation calls for caring for the mental well-being of everyone — women, men, youth, and persons with disabilities alike,” she said.
The department said it remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote mental wellness, social cohesion and human dignity across South Africa.
