Introduction

Mental health remains a significant concern worldwide, with stigma often preventing individuals from seeking help. In South Africa, cultural, social, and economic factors compound these challenges, making the fight against mental health stigma particularly complex. This article delves into personal stories from young professionals in South Africa, highlighting their struggles, triumphs, and the ongoing battle to break the stigma surrounding mental health.

The Cultural Context

In many South African communities, mental health issues are often misunderstood or dismissed due to cultural beliefs and a lack of awareness. Traditional views may label mental health struggles as a sign of weakness or a spiritual issue rather than a medical condition. This cultural context can make it difficult for individuals to seek help or even acknowledge their mental health needs.

Simoné’s Personal Story

As a young woman from a town called Bonteheuwel, the stigma attached to mental health and education is all negative. I broke that stigma with my dream to study and make something of myself. I have struggled so much with my studies that I never knew if I would make it. I battled so much that I studied something different every year after Matric to find my feet. Years later, while doing my honours, I realised I could follow my dreams and become a counsellor. Today, I am registered as a wellness counsellor at the ASCHP (Association for Supportive Counsellors and Holistic Practitioners). I have an honours degree in industrial psychology, which I obtained at UWC (University of the Western Cape). Helping people is my passion. I enjoy listening to others and offering possible solutions. I find it pleasing to make sure that others are happy by any means. I dream of providing counselling at a minimum fee to be accessible to everyone. As coloureds, we believe that seeking help from mental healthcare workers is wrong, and it means that we are crazy. However, we don’t realise the huge relief that talking to a counsellor can bring. Today, I want to break that stigma and let my generation know it is okay not to be okay. We all need help at some point. Even I need a counsellor to listen to me. 

I am working as a Graduate Intern at the Department of Agriculture, and the first question I asked my manager was, “Do you have counsellors?” And the answer was “no”. I was disappointed because I hoped to sit in and work there, as this is where I belong. As time passed, I started Counseling a few students, and I immensely enjoyed it. I realised that if not Counselling, then I don’t know where I belong. This is my calling, and I will follow it no matter what it takes. I will embrace my gift and enlighten people on this topic as much as possible. My main goal is to do Counselling full-time and help others who need assistance with their mental health. 

The Role of Support Systems

Friends, family, and colleagues are crucial in providing emotional support and encouraging individuals to seek professional help. In South Africa, mental health advocacy organisations are also working tirelessly to provide resources and create awareness, helping to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health. The support system that we have when we are faced with difficulties has a significant impact on our development. If we don’t have the right people by our side, everything can go downhill. However, if we have the right people on our side to guide and support us, things will seem a bit better and positive. We must choose our friends, family and colleagues right to make it in life. Jealousy is natural, and people sometimes rejoice in our downfall. This is why having your personal counsellor by your side while sharing your difficulties can shed light on your development. 

Conclusion

Breaking the stigma around mental health in South Africa requires a multifaceted approach involving personal bravery, community support, and systemic change. As more young professionals speak out, the hope is that mental health will be recognised and treated equally as physical health, leading to a more supportive and understanding society.

Remember, your mental and physical health is your most valuable asset. With Zarcare’s online platform, you can access expert advice and care wherever you are.

Zarcare is committed to making quality healthcare accessible, affordable, and stress-free. Our mission is to facilitate high-quality online healthcare in Southern Africa, connecting providers and patients through a secure and reliable platform. You can book your consultations with Simoné here.