Experts Call for Urgent Investment in Young South Africans' Mental Health

Published 2026-10-26

Mental health experts in South Africa are calling for faster action to support young people. They say that many young South Africans face problems such as stress, anxiety and depression, and that these problems often go untreated. Because the country has a limited number of mental health professionals, many families struggle to find help for their children.

According to the argument published by the Daily Maverick, early support is important. When young people receive help at an early stage, they are more likely to finish school, find work and build healthy relationships later in life. Experts say that schools, clinics and community groups can all play a role in identifying problems early and referring young people to the right services.

Supporters of more investment also point out that the cost of ignoring mental health is high. Untreated conditions can lead to poor school results, substance abuse and unemployment, which affect both individuals and the wider economy. They argue that funding for counselling, training for teachers and awareness campaigns should be increased now, rather than waiting for a crisis to happen.

The article notes that the discussion is likely to continue as the government and health organisations decide how to allocate resources. For many families across the country, the question is how quickly these ideas can become practical support for young people who need it most.

Sources: Daily Maverick

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