Witkoppen social worker urges men to speak up
As Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month is observed, a Witkoppen Clinic social worker is encouraging men to break the stigma around seeking help and start talking about their struggles.
For nearly a decade, Ronald Mphago has worked with families, children and vulnerable members of the community at Witkoppen Clinic. But one issue continues to stand out to him: many men are still suffering in silence.
Mphago, a statutory social worker with eight to nine years of experience, said cultural expectations often make it difficult for men to open up about their emotions.
Read more: Education expert shares why learners’ mental health matters most in 2026
“In many African communities, men are taught that a man does not cry. They are expected to be strong all the time.”
According to him, this pressure often prevents men from seeking help when they are struggling mentally or emotionally. Instead, they may withdraw from loved ones, spend more time alone, or turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as excessive drinking.
He said changes in behaviour can be warning signs that someone needs support.
“When a person starts avoiding family, spending less time with their children or becoming isolated, those can be signs that something is wrong.”
Also read: Education expert shares why learners’ mental health matters most in 2026
Although more men are starting to visit clinics and support programmes, Mphago believes there is still a long way to go. Many only seek help when problems have already become serious.
“To address this, clinics are creating spaces such as men’s health days and awareness programmes where men can talk openly and learn about available support services.”
Mphago encouraged men to reach out to social workers, psychologists and healthcare professionals before their struggles become overwhelming.
“It is not a weakness to ask for help. We are all human beings, and we all face challenges.”
His message for Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month is simple but powerful: ‘Let’s speak up.’
He also believes positive change starts at home.
“If we guide and support our male children while they are still young, we can help raise a generation of men who are not afraid to express themselves and seek help when they need it.”
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