As South Africa continues to grapple with one of the highest youth unemployment rates in the world, mental health experts warn that feelings of hopelessness, depression and isolation are becoming increasingly common among young people.
As South Africa marks Youth Day, attention once again turns to one of the country's most pressing challenges: youth unemployment.
While the economic impact is widely discussed, the emotional and psychological toll often receives far less attention.
For thousands of young South Africans, the search for work is about more than earning an income. It is a daily battle against uncertainty, self-doubt and the fear of being left behind.
Prolonged unemployment can chip away at confidence, strain relationships and leave young people questioning their place in society.
