There’s a concern regarding the growing mental health challenges affecting individuals, families and communities, as the country observes October as Mental Health Awareness Month.

The Gauteng provincial legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Health and Wellness says it has begun oversight visits to mental healthcare facilities.

The committee says it will engage with professionals, academics, and stakeholders next month to deliberate on how services can be made accessible.

South Africa reportedly has a significant burden of mental health issues, which contributes to the soaring rate of suicide.

At only 13, a young boy has had the worst experience of his life coming back from school over a week ago. He found his 23-year-old brother hanging in their home. His mother, Nomvuko Sidumo, says the stress of economic hardship took a heavy toll on his mental health.

“Saying he completed his matric but couldn’t proceed with studies due to financial problems. He tried looking for a job but couldn’t find any. He hanged himself in the house with an iron cord,” says Sidumo.

Sidumo says her family’s devastated, especially the young boy.

“Saying she’s worried about how her 13-year-old boy will be coping when he goes back to school, because he always looks up when he gets into the house and he constantly sees his brother’s picture and no longer wants to be in this place,” Sidumo elaborates.

Understanding anxiety and depression #teensuicidepreventionweek pic.twitter.com/t3ZDbfYyVh

— Dep. Basic Education (@DBE_SA) February 12, 2025

VIDEO | Observing World Mental Health Day

“Saying they’re receiving a lot of cases of people who commit suicide due to their living conditions and the pressures of life and young people are also included. Many are into substance abuse because of unemployment and economic hardships,” says Community leader, Wiseman Masilela, explains the community’s struggles.

According to SADAG 10% of unnatural deaths are adults, 9.5% in youth are due to suicide and according to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group, 10 percent of all unnatural deaths in adults and 9.5 five percent in youth, are because of suicide. Phetolo Ya Bophelo, a non-governmental organisation, says there’s a need for better mental health services and greater awareness. Phetolo Ya Bophelo Chairperson, Kgomotso Seoketsa weighs in.

“Saying mental health challenges are real but can be successfully addressed where services are available. People need to take notice of someone showing signs of mental problems and provide assistance,” says Seoketsa.

Seoketsa says many people still struggle in silence due to stigma, discrimination and while struggling to grapple with their loss. The Sidumo family will be heading to the Eastern Cape for the burial of their child this weekend.

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— SADAG (@TheSADAG) October 12, 2025