Latest news with #Mbele
The South African
17-05-2025
- Health
- The South African
Report reveals alarming rise in suicide deaths in South Africa
A new report from Discovery Life reveals a concerning rise in suicide-related deaths in South Africa, particularly among older adults. According to the insurer's 2024 Claims Experience report, published in April 2025, suicide accounted for 45% of all life claims among those aged 41 to 60. Among individuals over the age of 50, suicide claims surged by 62% compared to the five-year average. The report shows that across all age groups, suicide was the leading cause of death from unnatural causes in 2024, accounting for 35% of such claims. This figure surpassed those from motor vehicle accidents (23%), crime (17%), trauma (10%) and other accidental causes (15%). The data reflects a troubling trend, with most claims involving older men. However, the youngest claimant was a 35-year-old woman with a history of psychological illness. Mental health support remains inadequate According to Mail&Guardian , Clinical psychologist Zamo Mbele said the rise in suicides reflects worsening mental illness, including depression, anxiety, psychotic and substance-use disorders. He also pointed to the persistent lack of access to appropriate mental health care. 'There is still too little care and a great deal of stigma, so people do not seek help,' Mbele explained. The Council for Medical Schemes estimates South Africa's suicide rate at 23.5 per 100 000 people in 2024 translating to around 14 000 deaths a year. Mbele said mental health challenges are increasing in schools and the workplace. In corporate environments, he noted that mental health responses are outdated and fail to address individual needs. A 2023 survey by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) found that 60% of employees wished they could afford to leave their jobs. The study found that work was a major stressor across several sectors, including education, healthcare, government and finance. Mbele said financial stress is a common factor behind suicidality in all age groups. 'The cost of living is higher, and for many, suicide becomes a perceived way out of financial distress,' he said. While Discovery's figures mainly reflect a small segment of the population, those who can afford private insurance. Mbele said they point to a broader issue affecting people across all income levels. South Africa faces a critical shortage of trained mental health professionals. Studies show there is only one psychologist for every 100 000 people. Mbele criticised the overall quality of mental health services in both the public and private sectors, saying many professionals lack adequate training. 'There's a high demand, but the quality of care and training is often poor,' he said. According to the World Health Organisation, globally, suicide claims the lives of more than 720 000 people each year, and it is the third leading cause of death among those aged 15 to 29. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
23-04-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Top executive to return to Orlando Pirates a year after resigning
A number of changes are expected to happen at Orlando Pirates in the coming months! Head coach Jose Riveiro has handed in his resignation meaning a new head coach will take charge of the club next season. And now, reports suggest the club are also set to welcome the return of a familiar face in their administrative department! READ MORE • Ex-Sundowns coach linked with Orlando Pirates co-coaching gig! READ MORE • Orlando Pirates sign new star, watch out Mofokeng and Saleng! Just over a year after resigning at the Buccaneers, experienced football administrator Floyd Mbele is set to return to the club. Mbele was reportedly fired by Sekhukhune United earlier this year after falling out with management at Babina Noko. Now reports suggest a return to Orlando Pirates is on the cards! 'You know since he (Mbele) left and since the passing away of Screamer Tshabalala there has been a shortage in options to work close with the team,' an insider told Soccer Laduma . 'There are other administrators. But that's why it's believed that Mbele is coming back next season. The good thing is that he knows the team very well and apparently he will be working with the new coach who the team will appoint.' READ MORE • Orlando Pirates coach will DOUBLE current salary if he joins African giants Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@ or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. You can also follow @ TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news.
