MENTAL HEALTH DAY
Written by Anchen Coetzee
World Mental Health Day, observed every year on October 10, is an opportunity to speak openly about mental health and to consider how families, friends, workplaces and communities can play a role in creating the conditions for people to thrive. This year, the World Federation for Mental Health has placed the spotlight on access to services in times of crisis and catastrophe. The theme highlights the fact that mental health is not a luxury but a basic human right, and one that becomes even more critical when people face emergencies, whether personal or collective.
South Africa has very high mental illness statistics, yet access to professional help remains uneven. According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), as many as one in three South Africans will experience a mental health challenge in their lifetime, but fewer than one in ten receive adequate treatment. Cost, stigma and limited services in rural areas all contribute to the gap. In this context, local networks such as community forums can be lifelines. Where formal services are scarce, the encouragement and practical support of community can make all the difference. A sense of belonging, in most cases, is itself a protective factor against anxiety, depression and even suicidal thoughts.
It is not always obvious when someone is struggling. While certain symptoms are commonly associated with mental illness, each person experiences distress differently. The important thing is not to wait for certainty before offering support. A gentle word, an invitation to talk, or simply showing up for a neighbour can be the first step in preventing a crisis. Community leaders can also help by normalising conversations about mental health. Something as simple as a residents’ newsletter sharing resources, or a wellness event hosted in the workplace, can open doors for those who might otherwise remain silent. Readers can use MedicalAid.com to compare various medical aid benefits, including mental health care coverage.
Starting a conversation can feel daunting, but mental health advocates offer practical advice. Choosing the right moment, setting aside distractions and letting the person share at their own pace are key. Open-ended questions such as “How have you been feeling lately?” are more helpful than assumptions about what is wrong. Friends, colleagues or family members do not need to diagnose; their role is to listen and support. Encouraging self-care in the form of rest, exercise and healthy food can also play a part. Sometimes the bravest step is suggesting a professional appointment or offering to accompany them. Above all, listening without judgement is the foundation of community care.
When a crisis arises, whether through suicidal thoughts, self-harm or symptoms of psychosis, staying calm is vital. Listening, avoiding confrontation and helping the person to contact a trusted friend, family member or medical professional can make a difference. In cases where immediate danger exists, urgent medical attention is essential. In small communities, early intervention often depends on someone nearby noticing unusual behaviour or responding to warning signs with compassion. These actions may prevent tragedy.
The strength of South Africa lies not only in its institutions but in its people. In neighbourhoods where residents look out for one another, where estate committees prioritise wellness, and where faith groups provide safe spaces, individuals feel less isolated. These smaller circles of connection are powerful buffers against the pressures of daily life. World Mental Health Day serves as a reminder that while access to professional services must improve, community support is already within reach. By listening, speaking up and refusing to let stigma silence the conversation, South Africans can help one another build resilience in the face of hardship.
For those in need of help, support is available. Contact the South African Depression and Anxiety Group on 0800 567 567 (suicidal emergency line) or SMS 31393. For urgent assistance, dial 112 from any cellphone for free.
