Securitas® Financial Group
Exploring Mental Health Struggles in Modern South Africa
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes and does not substitute for professional help. If you are struggling with your mental health, please reach out to a qualified professional immediately.
Mental Health
Understanding Mental Health and Its Prevalence
Mental health isn’t simply the absence of illness, but it’s also a state of wellbeing that helps us cope with stress, realise our potential, learn, work productively, and contribute to our communities. Despite its importance, mental health disorders are common worldwide. In 2019, an estimated 970 million people experienced a mental disorder, with anxiety and depression being the most prevalent (WHO).
In South Africa, over 27% of the population experiences depression, and related absenteeism costs the economy billions each year (Current State of Mental Health in South Africa, 2024). Factors such as poverty, inequality, violence, and disability can increase the risk of developing a mental disorder (WHO). Globally, health systems often remain under-resourced, leaving treatment gaps and care quality inconsistent, while stigma and discrimination continue to prevent people from seeking help.
Gender and age also play a significant role. Women are more likely to experience depression and anxiety, particularly during pregnancy and the postpartum period, while men are more prone to ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and conduct disorders (WHO, 2025).
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How Mental Health Disorders Affect Us
Mental health disorders can influence many aspects of our lives, with these influences often overlapping and connected. On a biological level, conditions such as depression or bipolar disorder may alter brain chemistry and hormone balance, leading to fatigue, changes in appetite, and disrupted sleep. In fact, severe mental illnesses can shorten life expectancy by as much as 10–20 years, primarily because of preventable physical conditions (WHO).
These disorders greatly influence our inner world. Depression can bring feelings of worthlessness, irritability, and social withdrawal, while motivation gradually drops (Auld, 2021). Anxiety may surface through constant worry, restlessness, or sudden episodes of panic, disrupting everyday functioning.
Beyond biology or psychology, our direct environments can also play a significant role in our mental health. Pressures such as job insecurity, academic stress, and remote work challenges can increase vulnerability, while exposure to violence or trauma carries its own long-term effects. Social media and societal expectations, particularly among younger generations, often intensify self-comparison and stress (Auld, 2021; World Health Organisation; Current State of Mental Health in South Africa, 2024).
Socioeconomic factors add another layer, as access to quality care is uneven. It is no secret that rural areas often lack facilities altogether, public services are often stretched thin, and private treatment is out of reach for many. Financial strain, unemployment, and limited workplace support can further deepen mental distress (Current State of Mental Health in South Africa, 2024).
Monitoring your mental health
Building Your Mental Health Toolbox
The good news is that even small, consistent steps can make a real difference to your mental wellbeing. Reaching out for professional support is often the most important first step. Whether it’s speaking to a GP, psychologist, or psychiatrist, professionals can provide the proper assessments, therapy, or medication when needed. If cost is a concern, organisations such as SADAG offer helplines and affordable counselling options, making help more accessible.
It’s also worth checking whether your medical aid covers mental health services. Having the right plan in place can ease financial pressure and ensure you have access to therapy or psychiatric care when it’s most needed.
On a personal level, monitoring your mental health can be empowering. Online assessments give you a sense of where you are and highlight areas that need more attention. Alongside this, taking care of your body through diet and exercise can have a surprisingly positive impact on your mood and cognitive function. Even something as simple as a short daily walk or eating more mindfully can bring benefits.
Sleep is another key to better mental health. Sticking to a routine and creating a restful sleep environment can help reduce anxiety and sharpen concentration. Just as important is maintaining social connections. Spending time with friends or family, even through virtual platforms, helps counter feelings of isolation and strengthens your support system.
Managing stress is an ongoing process, but small techniques like mindfulness, journaling, breathing exercises, or yoga can make daily challenges feel a bit more manageable. You don’t have to commit hours at a time; even five minutes of meditation can help. And perhaps most importantly, remember to celebrate the small wins. While progress may be gradual, recognising everyday efforts, whether it’s simply getting up on a challenging day or taking a walk, helps to build up your hope and resilience.
Medical aid
Final Thoughts
Mental health is complex and influenced by multiple factors, but it’s possible to make meaningful improvements through gradual, consistent steps.
By combining professional help, self-care practices, and supportive resources such as medical aid, SADAG, and mental health professionals, you can create a comprehensive toolbox to rely on. Remember, it’s about small steps, not perfection. Even tiny, consistent actions can lead to significant improvements in your wellbeing over time.
If you found this article help you may want to read Corporate Wellness Week: Realistic Ways to Prioritise Employee Wellbeing That Actually Work or Men’s Health Month: Awareness, Prevention, and Financial Preparedness. Please don’t hesitate to share this with anyone who may benefit from reading this article.
If you or someone you know is at risk of self-harm or experiencing a severe mental health crisis, please reach out to SADAG on 0800 567 567 for immediate support. Alternatively, reach out to your health professional.