Let’s start with a trigger warning: this article is about male mental health. It’s a touchy subject because in South Africa, men account for an estimated 80% of all deaths by suicide. According to Discovery Life’s 2024 Claims Experience Report, suicide accounted for 35% of all unnatural death claims in South Africa – higher than motor vehicle accidents (23%) and crime (17%).
Why words matter
We started with a trigger warning because, as the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) explains, “When it comes to men’s mental health, words matter. Many men grow up being told to ‘man up’ or ‘stay strong, ’ so opening up can feel uncomfortable or even shameful. How we respond in those moments can either help them feel safe or shut them down.”
The real effects of stigma
The effects of that stigma are real. According to a national study by Wits University and the Medical Research Council, more than 25% of South Africans experience probable depression or anxiety, but only about 25% of them receive treatment. This mirrors the global trend of under-treatment, especially among men.
Help is available
That’s a lot of bad news. Here’s the good news: help is available, and you’re not alone. We’re no longer living in the world our fathers grew up in (thank goodness), and there are loads of mental health resources available to men today.
Start with your smartphone
Start with your smartphone. Mental health apps like Calm and Headspace are great for meditation and re-centring yourself, while Moodfit offers mood tracking tools that help you identify the things that set you off (and how to cope with them). Moodfit’s free version gives you some core features, but full access does require a paid subscription.
Apps designed specifically for men
Another option is Mettle, a mental health app designed specifically for men that focuses on building positive daily habits and giving you tips and tools to improve your mental and physical health. Most of Mettle’s features require a paid subscription, but you can try its 14-day free trial to see if it works for you.
When you need to talk to a professional
The apps we’ve just mentioned are great for lone wolves who want to manage their mental health on their own… but – it bears repeating – sometimes you can’t make it on your own. Sometimes you need to talk to a qualified mental health professional. Again, your smartphone can help.
Online therapy sessions
Apps like BetterHelp and Talkspace connect you with licensed (human) therapists for virtual sessions. This can be an ideal option for guys who prefer the privacy and convenience of online appointments. Both apps are available in South Africa, but their subscription fees are a bit pricey (north of $65 a week!) and local medical aid typically doesn’t cover them. If you’re on a budget, you might want to try AI-based therapy apps like Woebot or Youper instead.
Take action: Do something
Whatever you do, do something. SADAG’s website has a wealth of resources and links to therapists and other resources. At the very least, if you feel like you’re struggling with depression or anxiety – or just aren’t feeling like your normal champion self – then visit your GP, who’ll gladly point you in the right direction.
