As the mental health crisis among men intensifies, the ripple effects are increasingly devastating, particularly for women who become victims of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

The recent scourge of brutal killings of women in the Free State has highlighted the dire consequences of untreated mental health issues among men. Despite Pres. Cyril Ramaphosa declaring GBV a national pandemic the problem persists, leaving many residents distressed and demanding action.

Free State Social Development MEC Mathabo Leeto has warned about the alarming rise in GBVF incidents. This warning comes as the community grapples with the harsh realities of a society where mental health issues are often stigmatised, especially among men.

Mathabo Leeto taking an oath to serve the people of the Free State as MEC responsible for the Department of Social Development. Photo supplied

The reluctance of men to seek help has continued to exacerbate the problem, creating a toxic environment where untreated mental health issues can manifest in violence against women.

Dischem Clinic Admin Manager Ernst van Rensburg has outlined several pressing health challenges faced by men, including mental health, prostate cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Van Rensburg emphasised that while men and women face similar health challenges, men are significantly less likely to seek medical attention.

Dischem Clinic Admin Manager, Ernst van Rensburg. Photo: Screenshot

“What is important is to seek help urgently as soon as you start experiencing symptoms of any condition. Don’t ignore any symptoms you might have and remember one thing, there’s no shame and we are all the same.

“That’s one thing I would advise because I feel like men are often ashamed to acknowledge they might have a medical condition, especially a mental health condition,” said Van Rensburg.

Historically, men have been taught to suppress their emotions, leading to difficulties in emotional awareness and processing. This emotional disconnect often results in men feeling isolated and reluctant to seek help, further aggravating their mental health struggles.

‘Men reluctant to seek help‘

Many men, particularly those who are primary breadwinners, fear that acknowledging health issues will undermine their ability to provide for their families. This fear prevents them from seeking necessary medical attention, perpetuating a cycle of untreated conditions.

Van Rensburg stressed the importance of seeking help at the first sign of symptoms, highlighting that there is no shame in acknowledging a medical or mental health condition. Regular medical screenings and early intervention are crucial in managing health issues and improving quality of life.

He added that the stigma surrounding certain medical conditions, especially mental health issues, plays a significant role in men's reluctance to seek help. Van Rensburg advises men to undergo yearly health screenings to monitor vital indicators like blood pressure, glucose levels, and cholesterol.

Recognising and addressing mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety are equally important. By visiting health facilities for diagnoses and treatment, men can improve their overall well-being and reduce the risk of engaging in harmful behaviours.

Van Rensburg outlined key symptoms of mental health struggles, including difficulties in coping with daily activities, disruptions in sleep, and a loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities. Men experiencing these symptoms should seek urgent medical attention. He also said confiding in a trusted individual about mental health issues can provide much-needed support and facilitate the path to recovery.

While men are encouraged to seek medical help, the healthcare system itself faces challenges, such as medication shortages and staff attitudes towards patients.

Free State Health MEC Monyatso Mahlatsi has urged men to take their health seriously, especially during Men’s Health and Mental Health Month in June. Premier MaQueen Letsoha Mathae and her new executive committee paid oversight visits to Pelonomi and National District Hospitals on Sunday (23/6). The visit saw the health management coming under scrutiny for the dire state of health facilities in the province which resulted in the suffering of patients.

Mahlatsi appealed to men to seek professional mental health care rather than turning to alcohol and drugs, which can lead to addiction, suicide, and violent altercations, including GBV.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg