'Violence takes heavy toll on South Africa’s mental health', warns federation ahead of World Mental Health Day

As the world prepares to mark World Mental Health Day, experts are warning of the need to confront one of South Africa’s biggest threats to mental well-being: violence.

Ahead of World Mental Health Day, SAFMH’s Michel’le Donnelly is calling for urgent action, stressing that fear and trauma linked to violence have lasting effects on communities and individuals.

“Violence has an effect on mental health,” says Donnelly.

South Africa ranks among the top 10 most violent countries globally and has one of the highest murder rates. This level of violence, along with the fear it causes, greatly contributes to mental distress.

Research shows that persistent fear of crime and safety worries raise stress levels, causing a noticeable decline in mental health.

Donnelly notes that individuals living in high-crime areas are at greater risk of developing depression due to persistent fear and anxiety.

“Both violent and property crimes have a significant economic and psychological impact,” she adds. “Even indirect exposure to crime, simply living in an unsafe environment, can take a toll on a person's mental health.”

Donnelly is urging government to recognise the link between violence and mental health as a public health emergency.

To address the crisis, she also believes these interventions are necessary:

• Acknowledging violence as a public health emergency and understanding its direct impact on mental well-being.
• Ensuring equitable access to mental health services for all individuals affected.
• Investing in preventative social programs that target the root causes of violence and aim to reduce associated risk factors.
• Encouraging open conversations about mental health, especially in the context of gender-based violence (GBV), crime, and poverty.

To contact SAFMH, please call 011 781 1852, email info@safmh.org, or visit their website.

To listen to Michel’le Donnelly in conversation with Jacob Moshokoa on CapeTalk's Early Breakfast show, click on the audio below: