Latest news with #SouthAfricanDepressionandAnxietyGroup
The South African
4 days ago
- The South African
RIP: Tragic end to search for missing Bellville woman as body found in guesthouse
What began as a frantic search for a missing Bellville woman has ended in heartbreak after the body of Chantal Pelser was discovered in a Cape Town guesthouse on Wednesday afternoon. She was 52. Pelser had been missing since Sunday, 25 May, after she was last seen driving her silver Hyundai i10 through the Bo-Kaap area around 13:00, reportedly heading toward Kloof Nek Road. Her sudden disappearance prompted a desperate plea for help across social media, with family and friends describing her as vulnerable and urging the public to assist in locating her. After days of silence, hope turned to sorrow when Pelser's body was found in a guesthouse room, following a police investigation that traced her bank card activity to the location. Emergency medical services and law enforcement were already at the scene when relatives arrived. The news was confirmed by Beau Solms, the daughter of Pelser's long-time partner, Linlee Solms. 'We're still in the process of notifying the search agencies and asking them to call it off,' said Beau. She and her mother are expected to officially identify the body on Thursday. According to Lieutenant Colonel Fienie Nimb, spokesperson for the Bellville police, no signs of foul play were discovered at the scene. 'She checked in on Sunday. Her death is currently being treated as a suicide. Investigations are ongoing,' said Nimb. During the search, concern had grown after Pelser's phone went offline shortly after she was last seen. Her vehicle had not triggered any new entries in the License Plate Recognition (LPR) system, further complicating the efforts to locate her. Non-profit organisation PinkLadies, which supports missing persons cases, had flagged Pelser's case as high priority due to concerns about her emotional wellbeing. The family and authorities await official reports and post-mortem results, but the early findings point to a tragic end to a case that had sparked widespread concern and community involvement. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or emotional distress, please seek help. Contact Lifeline South Africa at 0861 322 322 or the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) at 0800 456 789 (24-hour suicide helpline). Post your condolences below, by … Leaving a comment below, or sending 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.
IOL News
21-05-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Unsilencing the struggle: men's mental health and the fight against GBVF in South Africa
Sandile Mlangeni is a 2019 GP-based Activator, he is passionate about youth activism. Sandile regards it as important to contribute his views and experiences to recognised entities seeking to develop communities. He started his journey as an activist in 2012 when he started collaborating with community-based organisations in his hometown in Tsakane and Kwa-Thema Ekurhuleni. Kunzima, bafwethu. Being a man in South Africa means carrying silent battles, pressures to provide financially to your family, expectations to remain strong, and we're told to bury even our deepest pains. We were taught to 'man up, not to open up!' And so, we bottle things in '(sifela ngaphakathi),' a usual setting among men. The statistics are grim: men account for the vast majority of suicides in South Africa, a stark reflection of a mental health crisis festering in silence. As men, we don't talk because we're scared of being judged. We don't seek help because we're afraid of looking weak. This silence isn't just killing men it's fuelling the epidemic of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). It's time to challenge this narrative and redefine strength as vulnerability, because every man's life matters, and so does every woman and children's safety associated with men who are emotionally wounded. South Africa faces a suicide crisis disproportionately claims men. According to The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) estimates a suicide rate of 11.5 per 100 000 people in 2020/21, with men making up 75% of cases. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) reports 23 known suicides daily, with men consistently making up three-quarters of these deaths, based on data from 2019. For every suicide, ten others have attempted it, pointing to widespread untreated mental distress. Men are five times more likely to die by suicide than women globally, and in South Africa, this gap is even wider. Behind these numbers are stories of despair: 9.7% of South Africans 4.5 million people experience depression in their lifetime, and 70% of those who attempt suicide have a mental health condition. A 2020 report by the World Health Organization (WHO), highlighted that 75% of those with mental illnesses lack access to adequate care, constrained by an underfunded health system, and a culture that stigmatises weakness. Poverty, unemployment, and violence hallmarks of South Africa's socio-economic landscape deepen this crisis. With a Gini coefficient of 63.0, in 2020 the World Bank reported that South Africa is the world's most unequal society, with economic hardship driving suicide risk, particularly for men expected to be providers in their families. The 2024 unemployment rate of 32.9%, as indicated by Stats-SA intensifies this pressure, especially in urban areas where financial instability is severe. Continuous traumatic stress from living in high crime areas or witnessing violence further erodes mental resilience, leaving men feeling trapped and hopeless. According to the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), the silent struggles of men are inseparable from South Africa's GBVF crisis. The country has one of the highest femicide rates globally, with 5.5 women killed per 100 000 by intimate partners in 2020/21. Three women die daily at the hands of someone close to them, and 60% of femicides are committed by intimate partners. Unchecked mental health issues can escalate into violence, with a 2008 study revealing that 19.4% of intimate femicide perpetrators in South Africa died by suicide within a week of the murder. Legal gun ownership, often tied to notions of masculine control, significantly increases this risk. Are patriarchal norms the root of these crises? South Africa's culture equates masculinity with dominance, leaving men unable to process emotions healthily. A 2019 study in Culture, Health and Sexuality noted that practices like lobola, while they are culturally significant, can blind notions of consent, reinforcing ideas of ownership over women. Men need to be re-educated that, they don't have ownership over their wives and they cannot claim them as their property, marriage is an agreement between two people who decided to build their lives together, and start a family. Patriarchy is a double-edged sword, it demands that men must be confident, in control, must have money, and unyielding, yet punishes vulnerability. 'The 'macho male stereotype' expects men to 'man up' and adopt the 'boys don't cry' mentality,' says Dr. Talatala of the South African Society of Psychiatrists. This stigma drives men to suffer in silence, particularly in African contexts where stoicism is a cultural cornerstone. The legacy of apartheid adds another layer. A 2017 study by SAMRC noted historical disenfranchisement and systemic racism have left lasting mental health disparities, with white males overrepresented in suicide statistics due to access to lethal means like firearms. Meanwhile, Black men face unique pressures from intergenerational trauma and economic marginalisation, often without the resources to cope. As a new generation of men, we must rewrite this narrative. Real strength lies in vulnerability in reaching out and asking for help, in saying, 'I'm not okay.' By addressing men's mental health head on, we can dismantle the toxic norms that fuel despair and GBVF. Here's how: Expand Mental Health Access : Integrating mental health services into primary care is cost effective and scalable. Community based programs in low-income areas can reach men where they are, breaking cycles of untreated illness. Organisations like SADAG (0800 567 567) and LifeLine (0861-322-322) offer free counseling and should be amplified. Normalise Help Seeking : Public campaigns can shift perceptions, showing that vulnerability is strength. Social media, radio, and community events can share stories of men who sought help, inspiring others to follow suit. Decriminalising attempted suicide, as advocated by the Southern Africa Litigation Centre, would further reduce stigma. Address Root Causes : Implement policies tackling poverty, unemployment, and gender inequality, as highlighted in the 2020 National Strategic Plan on GBVF. Economic empowerment programs for men can alleviate the pressure to provide, while gender equality initiatives can challenge patriarchal norms. Join the movement. Share your story, support a friend, or reach out for professional help. The silent struggles of men are a crisis we can no longer ignore. If you're reading this and going through the most, you don't have to be alone. Talk. Cry. Pray. Reach out to someone, it could be a friend, a colleague or a pastor. You matter. By breaking the silence, we save not only men's lives but also the families affected by the ripple effects of untreated pain. Let's redefine strength, one conversation at a time, and build a future where no one suffers in silence. This is also a collective fight for men to heal, for women to be safe, and for South Africa to thrive. *Sandile Mlangeni is a 2019 GP-based Activator, he is passionate about youth activism. Sandile regards it as important to contribute his views and experiences to recognised entities seeking to develop communities. He started his journey as an activist in 2012 when he started collaborating with community-based organisations in his hometown in Tsakane and Kwa-Thema Ekurhuleni.
IOL News
13-05-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Breaking the silence on mental health: how to have those difficult conversations
Despite growing awareness around mental wellness, talking about it remains a challenge. Image: Antoni Shkraba Studio/Pexels You may have a friend who seems unusually quiet or a family member who's withdrawn. You want to ask them how they're feeling, but you hesitate, afraid it might be awkward or intrusive. Sound familiar? For many, this scenario is all too common when it comes to discussing mental health. Despite growing awareness around mental wellness, talking about it remains a challenge. Why is mental health so hard to talk about? In South Africa, mental health is often clouded by stigma. According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), up to 1 in 6 South Africans suffer from anxiety, depression, or substance use disorders, yet many never seek help. Why? Talking about mental health is frequently seen as a sign of weakness or failure. Cultural beliefs also play a role. In some communities, mental illness is misunderstood, often attributed to spiritual causes or dismissed as a lack of resilience. A 2022 study by the Human Sciences Research Council highlighted that 70% of South Africans associate mental illness with social stigma, making it harder for individuals to seek help or confide in others. Economic inequality further complicates the issue. In a country where over 55% of the population lives in poverty, many prioritise survival over mental well-being. For instance, it's not uncommon for someone struggling with depression to dismiss their symptoms, saying, 'There's no time to be sad; I need to put food on the table.' Why does talking about mental health matter? Despite these barriers, discussing mental health is essential. Open conversations can lead to early intervention, reducing the severity of mental health issues. Moreover, they help normalise seeking help, breaking the cycle of stigma. Studies show that social support significantly improves mental health outcomes. A 2021 report by SADAG found that individuals who talk about their struggles are more likely to seek professional help, adhere to treatment, and experience better recovery rates. Mental health struggles are deeply personal, and dismissive comments can do more harm than good. Image: Nappy/Pexels How to start the conversation Talking about mental health doesn't have to be daunting. Here are some practical tips: 1. Start small and casual If diving straight into a conversation about mental health feels intimidating, begin with something lighter. Ask your friend or loved one how they're doing in general. For example, 'How's work been lately?' or 'How are things at home?' This approach creates a safe space for them to open up. 2. Acknowledge their struggles If you know someone is going through a tough time, whether it's job loss, grief, or trauma, acknowledge it. Say something like, 'I've noticed you've been quieter than usual. I want you to know I'm here if you need to talk.' This validates their feelings without being intrusive. 3. Offer practical support Acts of kindness can facilitate deeper conversations. Offer to help with practical tasks, such as picking up groceries or assisting with childcare. These gestures show that you care and can create opportunities for deeper conversations. 4. Avoid judgemental language Mental health struggles are deeply personal, and dismissive comments can do more harm than good. Avoid phrases like 'You're overreacting' or 'Just snap out of it.' Instead, use empathetic language such as, 'I can't imagine how hard this must be for you.' 5. Ask open-ended questions Rather than offering advice, ask questions that invite the person to share their feelings. For example, 'What can I do to support you?' or 'What do you think would help you feel better?' This empowers them to express their needs. 6. Be patient Sometimes, people aren't ready to talk, and that's okay. Let them know you're available when they're ready. \A simple message like, 'I'm here if you ever want to chat,' can make a big difference. Local resources for mental health support We live in a country with limited access to mental health services, but organisations like SADAG and Lifeline offer free or low-cost support. Encourage your loved ones to reach out to these resources: SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group): 24-hour helpline at 0800 456 789. Lifeline South Africa: Call 0861 322 322 for confidential support. LoveLife: Aimed at youth mental health, they offer counselling at 083 323 1023. Community-based initiatives, such as peer support groups in townships and rural areas, also play a crucial role in bridging the mental health gap. Mental health is a journey, not a destination. By starting conversations, we can help normalise mental wellness and create a culture of understanding and support. Mental health is something we all have, and taking care of it is a collective responsibility.
IOL News
13-05-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Taming the teen storm: SADAG launches free support group for parents
Parenting a teenager is undoubtedly challenging, but it doesn't have to feel impossible. Image: Yan Krukau /pexels We've all been teenagers before. It's easy to remember the growing pains, emotional outbursts, and moments when we felt misunderstood. But what happens when it's your turn to parent a teenager, especially one struggling with emotional and behavioural challenges? It's a reality many South African families face, and it comes with its own set of difficulties. Parenting is often described as one of life's most rewarding journeys, but it's also one of the most challenging. When your child is troubled, the weight of it can feel unbearable, especially in family dynamics that are already stretched thin, like single-parent households or child-headed families. The stigma surrounding mental health can make things worse, leaving parents feeling isolated and unsure of where to turn. When a teenager is struggling emotionally or behaviorally, it's not just their problem, it's a family problem. Trauma, anxiety, and stress rarely stay contained to one person. Parents, siblings, and even extended family members can feel the impact. Jacob Thomason, a family therapist at New Vision Wilderness, explains that when you have emotional, behavioural, and mental health challenges around you, any trauma that happens isn't contained to one person. Family members will be affected.' In response to this overwhelming need for support, SADAG has launched an Online Mental Health Support Group specifically for parents of teenagers with behavioural issues. Image: Liza Summer /pexels Parents, in particular, often bear the brunt. They feel a societal pressure to "fix" their child, and if they can't, they may see it as a personal failure. This guilt can be debilitating. Siblings, on the other hand, may feel overlooked, as the focus of the household shifts entirely to the struggling teen. This imbalance can breed resentment, anxiety, and feelings of isolation within the family unit. Here are some common challenges families face when a teenager is struggling: Parents and siblings may constantly worry about saying or doing something that could upset the teen. Family members may become irritable, leading to more frequent arguments. Sleep disturbances and appetite loss may become common. Household chores and responsibilities can feel overwhelming as emotional exhaustion sets in. Mental health conditions like anxiety or depression can develop in parents and siblings, or existing conditions may worsen. In some cases, substance use becomes a coping mechanism, potentially leading to substance use disorders. The mental load of parenting a teen with emotional or behavioural issues can leave parents feeling burned out. Beyond the emotional strain, there are financial pressures, relationship challenges, and work-life imbalances to navigate. As Tselane, a support group leader for the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), explains: 'Many parents express frustrations because of their teenager's behaviour. I believe this Support Group will help those parents to understand their children better, as other parents share their challenges and experiences. "Moreover, they'll learn different ways to work with their children to support them and themselves.' Finding support through SADAG To help parents cope, SADAG has launched an Online Mental Health Support Group for Parents of Teenagers with Behavioural Issues. This initiative offers a safe and compassionate space for parents to connect, share their stories, and develop practical strategies to manage their unique challenges. 'This Group is a place to let the worry, the constant second-guessing, and exhaustion go,' says Tselane. 'You'll meet other parents who've lived through the shouting, the silence, and the sleepless nights. Together, you'll share tips that help, and maybe for the first time in a while, you'll realise that you don't have to do this alone.' The first meeting will take place on Monday, May 12 at 6pm, with sessions continuing on the first and third Monday of each month. If you're interested in joining, you can contact Tselane on 065 929 6242. For more information about other support groups or mental health resources, visit call 0800 21 22 23, or SMS 31393 to speak to a counsellor. South Africa's diverse family structures mean that mental health challenges can manifest in unique ways. For single mothers, the struggle often lies in juggling financial and emotional responsibilities alone. In child-headed families, where older siblings take on parental roles, the pressure can be immense. These scenarios make resources like SADAG's Support Groups even more vital. Parenting a teenager isn't easy. But with the right support, it doesn't have to feel impossible. Whether you're a single mom, a grandmother stepping in as a caregiver, or a sibling trying to hold things together, you're not alone. Help is out there, and it starts with reaching out.
IOL News
12-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
More than half of South African employees face a mental health crisis
new study by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag has painted a grim picture Image: FreePik A study by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) has painted a grim picture, revealing that more than half of South African employees are struggling with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and burnout due to work stress and insecurity. Based on responses from over 960 participants, the survey found that six in ten workers wished they could afford to quit their jobs, and nearly half reported feeling unhappy at the start of the workweek. "Work emerged as a consistent stressor for many survey respondents, regardless of their employment sector, which included education, health, NPOS, finance, government, retail and media", the study noted. The survey also found that 52% of respondents have been diagnosed with a mental health condition, with 32% experiencing depression, 25% clinical stress, 18% anxiety, and 13% burnout. Nearly 38% of participants reported fearing job loss, while almost one in five said they had been forced to take on the responsibilities of former colleagues, often without additional support as employers opted not to replace staff who had resigned. SADAG founder Zane Wilson emphasised the urgent need for companies to prioritise mental health in the workplace, calling for proactive efforts to create healthier work environments. 'From the survey, we learn that more needs to be done at companies regarding Mental Health. The integration of innovative programmes to ensure that employees are working in a mentally healthy environment, and more Mental Health education will assist employers with an atmosphere of a more productive workforce," she said. Following Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana's recent announcement that the government would scrap the proposed Value Added Tax (VAT) increase last month, Andrew Cook, founder of the employee engagement platform HeadsUp, warned that South African businesses are facing a more persistent and costly issue. "Companies are still quietly haemorrhaging far more through a different kind of tax–one that's not debated in Parliament, doesn't make front-page news, but continues to drain productivity and profitability every day: burnout and disengagement," he said. 'Businesses were rightly concerned about the VAT increase, but many are already bleeding far more than that through disengaged employees. Burnout isn't just a wellness issue anymore – it's a financial one,' Cook said. IOL Business Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel.
