Ending the stigma: Why mental health matters

Mental health is often discussed in whispers, hidden behind closed doors or dismissed as a personal weakness.

Yet mental health is just as important as physical health, and ignoring it can have devastating consequences for individuals, families and communities.

Mental health refers to a person’s emotional, psychological and social well-being.

ALSO READ: Ekurhuleni social worker speaks on mental health, family struggles and purpose

It influences how people think, feel, make decisions, cope with stress and build relationships.

When people experience good mental health, they are better able to participate in their families, workplaces and communities.

Poor mental health, however, can affect a person’s ability to work, learn and enjoy everyday life.

The scale of the challenge is concerning, with more than one billion people worldwide living with a mental health condition.

Conditions such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affect people across all age groups, while loneliness and social isolation continue to pose serious risks to well-being.

Young people are particularly vulnerable. Teenagers can experience intense academic, social and family pressures while also navigating the challenges of growing up.

ALSO READ: EMPD hosts interdepartmental wellness day to boost teamwork and mental health

For some, loneliness and a lack of emotional support can make these challenges even more difficult.

Despite the widespread impact of mental health conditions, stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to seeking assistance.

People living with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia may still be labelled as weak, unstable or attention-seeking instead of being recognised as people experiencing legitimate health conditions.

Mental illness is not a failure of character or determination. Mental health conditions can develop through a combination of biological, psychological and environmental factors. Genetics, trauma, chronic stress, substance abuse and difficult childhood experiences can all contribute to a person’s mental health.

ALSO READ: GBV and mental health take centre stage at Germiston Taxi Rank campaign

Recognising the warning signs is therefore important. Persistent sadness, overwhelming anxiety, withdrawing from family and friends, sudden mood changes, difficulty concentrating, losing interest in activities, changes in sleeping or eating patterns and increased substance use can indicate that someone is struggling.

Thoughts of self-harm or suicide should always be taken seriously.

They are not simply signs of having a bad day and should never be ignored.

There is also a misconception that mental illness cannot be treated. Many people successfully manage their conditions or recover with appropriate professional support.

Treatment may include counselling or psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle changes and strong support networks. Early intervention can also help prevent symptoms from worsening.

However, treatment is only one part of the solution. Prevention and early support are equally important.

Families, schools, workplaces and community organisations can all contribute by creating environments where people feel safe enough to speak about their emotional well-being without fear of judgement.

ALSO READ: GBV and mental health take centre stage at Germiston Taxi Rank campaign

In South Africa, mental health support is available through public hospitals, clinics and specialised services.

Organisations such as the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), the South African Federation for Mental Health and Lifeline Johannesburg also provide various forms of support, including counselling, crisis intervention and support groups.

The Gauteng Department of Social Development also plays a role through its Disability Unit, which provides support, counselling, and awareness programmes that address mental health-related challenges.

Yet access to services alone will not solve the problem. Communities must also challenge the attitudes that prevent people from asking for help.

“Employers can promote healthier workplaces by taking employee well-being seriously. Schools can help young people develop emotional resilience and recognise when they or their peers may need support.

Families can create safe spaces for honest conversations, while community members can choose compassion over judgement,” said Gauteng Department of Social Development Media Liaison and Strategy Phetoho Maja.

“Mental health should not only become a topic of conversation when someone reaches a crisis point. Regular conversations about emotional well-being can help normalise seeking assistance and make it easier for people to speak up before their situation becomes overwhelming.”

ALSO READ: SA Health Department tackles mental health and substance abuse

“Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. It is an important step towards getting the support a person needs,” he said.

For communities such as Germiston and the surrounding areas, creating a culture where people can speak openly about mental health can make a meaningful difference.

Sometimes support begins with something as simple as listening without judgement, checking in on someone or encouraging them to seek professional help.

“Mental health is everyone’s business. By breaking the silence, challenging stigma and creating stronger support networks, communities can help ensure that people do not have to suffer alone,” said Maya, adding that every mind deserves care, understanding and support.