South African psychiatrists are urging men to seek help earlier for depression and anxiety, warning that stigma and social expectations often delay treatment until symptoms have escalated into crisis.
Psychiatrists are warning that many men delay seeking help for mental health conditions, often waiting until symptoms have reached crisis levels before accessing support.
According to the South African Society of Psychiatrists (SASOP), while women are more frequently diagnosed with conditions such as depression and anxiety, men are significantly less likely to seek professional help.
Research shows that one in eight men will experience depression and one in five will experience anxiety during their lifetime. However, mental health challenges in men often go unrecognised or untreated, frequently presenting through anger, withdrawal, substance abuse, aggression or risk-taking behaviour rather than more commonly recognised symptoms.
SASOP member Dr Gagu Matsebula said men are less likely to engage with healthcare services, including mental healthcare, even when these services are available.
