With soaring suicide rates and rising social issues, South Africa faces an urgent call to support the mental health of men and boys.
The Hidden Toll of Fatherlessness on South Africa’s Male Mental Health
South Africa is confronting a profound male mental health crisis exacerbated by a pervasive issue: fatherlessness. The statistics are grim. Men in South Africa are four to five times more likely to die by suicide than women, and experts warn that these numbers barely scratch the surface of the complex emotional turmoil many men face. Jaco van Schalkwyk, the founder of The Character Company (TCC), emphasizes that this crisis cannot be overlooked, highlighting the role fatherlessness plays in emotional distress and self-destructive behaviours among men and boys.
Unpacking the Male Mental Health Crisis
The societal impacts of this crisis are severe. Elevated rates of crime, substance abuse, and gender-based violence (GBV) reveal deep-rooted issues stemming from unaddressed emotional trauma. Van Schalkwyk notes that these behaviours often serve as coping mechanisms for men who lack the support needed to manage their mental well-being. Without intervention, these patterns can carry over to future generations, perpetuating a cycle of distress and violence that harms communities nationwide.
The Trauma of Growing Up Without a Father
Millions of South African boys grow up without a stable male role model, leading to significant emotional and social struggles that follow them into adulthood. Van Schalkwyk explains that these young men often seek validation in risky environments, sometimes falling into gang-related activities or toxic social circles that promote aggressive or violent behaviours. Furthermore, societal pressures continue to reinforce outdated notions of masculinity, expecting boys and men to be “tough” and suppress their emotions.
While girls in South Africa increasingly find ways to challenge traditional gender norms, boys often feel trapped by ideas like “real men don’t cry.” The resulting suppression of vulnerability leaves many men feeling isolated, without the tools to express or manage their emotions healthily. This stigma around emotional expression has contributed to a surge in mental health struggles, further exacerbated by the absence of male mentors.
The Role of Mentorship and Safe Spaces for Boys
Addressing this mental health crisis requires safe spaces where boys can openly explore and express their emotions without judgment. TCC’s mentoring programs provide such an environment, with a focus on respect, empathy, and emotional resilience. According to Van Schalkwyk, expanding these initiatives is vital for reducing not only the suicide rate among men but also GBV and substance abuse.
Creating these safe spaces is not just the responsibility of families but also schools, communities, and workplaces. By promoting spaces that encourage honest communication and emotional openness, South Africa can help boys and men confront their traumas and work toward healthier coping strategies.
Urgency for a Cultural Shift in Supporting Men’s Mental Health
To address the male mental health crisis and reduce the impact of fatherlessness, South African society must shift its perceptions of masculinity and prioritize the mental well-being of men and boys. As Van Schalkwyk notes, the nation must provide the support needed to help men navigate their vulnerabilities, especially in a society that often expects them to “tough it out.” By fostering a culture that values emotional openness and providing boys with positive role models, South Africa can create a healthier, more resilient generation.
Also read: Alarming Murder Statistics in South Africa: 70 People Killed Every Day
