October is Mental Health Month

The Professional Board for Psychology (PBoP), under the ambit of the Health Professions Council of SA (HPCSA), joins the global community in commemorating Mental Health Awareness Month this October, with World Mental Health Day observed on October 10.

This year, several themes frame the global and national conversations on mental health. The SA government has adopted the theme Access and Inclusion: Why Community Mental Health is Important.

Globally, the theme is Turn Awareness into Action, emphasising the need to translate commitments into tangible results. The board anchors on making mental health accessible to all, which is particularly relevant in SA, where communities still face the impacts of natural disasters, socio-economic hardships and rising rates of anxiety and depression.

“Mental health is not a luxury; it is a right. Our collective responsibility is to ensure that every South African, regardless of background, location or income, has access to quality, affordable and culturally sensitive mental health care,” says Professor Justin August, the chairperson of the PBoP.

October is not just about awareness. According to August, it is also a call to action to:
• educate ourselves and others about mental health conditions;
• support family, friends and colleagues through open conversations;
• advocate for resources that make mental health services accessible to all.

“Education, support and advocacy must anchor our national response. We need urgent, equitable interventions for the most vulnerable, those hit by natural disasters, fires, traumatised in the wake of emergencies or living with constant violence.

“Education arms society with knowledge that promotes understanding and compassion. Support reminds people they are not alone, and that healing is possible.

“And advocacy demands real resources – clinics, trained professionals and accessible services – so that no South African is denied the care they need simply because of where they live or the circumstances they face. This is not only an ethical duty but a societal necessity to build resilient communities and a healthier nation,” stresses August.

August says anxiety and depression remain among the most common mental health conditions in SA. The pressures of poverty, unemployment and inequality, compounded by disasters and violent crime, have intensified their prevalence.

“Yet, many who need help most are unable to access the services that could improve their lives. Mental disorders, including anxiety and depression, are treatable, yet underinvestment keeps many from receiving life-saving support.

“World Mental Health Day reminds us that mental well-being is a shared responsibility, one that requires government, healthcare professionals, civil society and individuals to act together.”

August says that globally, one in four people will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime. In SA, poverty, limited resources and an already stretched healthcare system frequently hinder access to care. Recent floods, fires and violent incidents have further worsened the mental health burden, highlighting the urgency of investing in comprehensive and accessible mental health care.

As South Africans, we all have a role to play in creating supportive environments where people feel safe to seek help.

“Our message is one of hope. Mental health challenges do not define who we are. With compassion, access to care and societal support, recovery and resilience are possible. Let us make October the month we move beyond awareness into meaningful action, sustained throughout the year,” concludes August.