SA must address the mental health crisis and male fatherlessness

As South Africa grapples with a growing mental health crisis, the impact of fatherlessness on men’s well-being is causing increasing concern.

According to statisticsSouth African men are four to five times more likely to die by suicide than women.

Experts say these figures are just the tip of the iceberg, with issues such as crime, gender-based violence and substance abuse exposing deep-seated emotional trauma in many men.

Jaco van Schalkwyk, founder of The Character Company (TCC), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting boys growing up without a father, emphasizes the urgency of tackling this problem.

“We need a breakthrough in men mental healthespecially for the countless boys and men who lack the emotional support needed to meet life’s challenges.

“There is a chronic lack of emotional well-being among the boys and men of the country. “While our suicide statistics speak for themselves, this crisis is also reflected in the high rates of crime and violence, gender-based violence (GBV) and the substance abuse epidemic in South African communities,” he said.

The trauma of fatherlessness

Van Schalkwyk highlighted that millions of South African boys grow up without regular male role models, leaving them vulnerable to emotional and social problems that last into adulthood.

He said many turn to self-destructive behavior or seek affirmation in risky environments, with some falling prey to gangs or toxic social influences that promote aggressive or violent behavior.

Van Schalkwyk added that some South African cultures still largely expect boys to suppress emotions, reinforcing outdated ideas about masculinity that leave little room for vulnerability or mental wellbeing.

“While South African girls and women have much more freedom to challenge traditional gender norms, boys and men are still largely trapped in ‘boys don’t cry’ and ‘real men are tough’ thinking.

“We’re not giving boys the opportunities they need to explore and express their emotions in healthy ways.”

He said these patterns perpetuate a cycle of mental health problems that, without intervention, often impact the next generation.

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How TCC is helping to tackle the men’s mental health crisis

Through TCC’s programs, Van Schalkwyk offers mentorship programs for young boys that focus on values ​​such as respect, honesty, empathy and a path to emotional resilience.

He said this is a safe environment for boys to talk openly about their challenges without fear of judgement.

“In my opinion, nothing is more important to address South Africa‘s mental health crisis than radically expanding the safe spaces where boys and men can confront their emotions, traumas and vulnerabilities.

“This goal is directly related to reducing GBV rates and addressing substance use disorders.

“It’s a challenge for families, schools, communities and workplaces to create these safe spaces for boys and men, who deserve a fair chance to grapple with emotions that are simply human,” Van Schalkwyk said.

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