A SECURE, CARING ENVIRONMENT IS IMPORTANT FOR CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH

 By Morapedi Sibeko

• The mental well-being of South Africa’s children is a serious issue that needs all stakeholders – families, caregivers, communities, government and non-governmental organisations – to be involved.
• Figures from the Department of Health’s 2023-2024 report show the critical need for greater mental health support, education and preventive measures.
• While bullying, substance use disorders, teen pregnancies and abuse all play a role in the day-to-day lives of many young people, help is available through Department of Social Development programmes.

Social, economic, and environmental factors impact children’s emotional and psychological well-being, including their mental health. However, many of South Africa’s children face a range of difficulties daily, which in turn impact their mental well-being.

Bullying, substance use disorders, teen pregnancies, and abuse – physically, emotionally, or online – can all have a negative impact, says Konanani Zondo, who is a social worker policy developer in the Department of Social Development.

Mental health, as defined by the World Health Organisation, is when a person is aware of their own potential, is able to manage everyday stressors, works effectively and efficiently, and gives back to their community.

Considering children are subjected to a variety of stresses that can cause emotional discomfort, it is imperative that all important stakeholders work together to establish a supportive environment.

“Identifying stressors early is essential to make sure children receive the appropriate support services, such as psycho-social therapies, as soon as possible,” says Zondo.

The seriousness of the crisis is demonstrated by the Department of Health’s 2023-2024 figures, which report 9 743 child suicide attempts and 87 086 documented mental health consultations. KwaZulu-Natal leads the country in child suicide attempts, followed by Limpopo and Mpumalanga.

The numbers demonstrate the critical need for greater mental health support, education, and preventive measures. The mental health of children is a serious issue that calls for cooperation from stakeholders, families, communities, and the government.

Zondo, who is involved in the department’s Child Protection Programme, explains that community education and awareness initiatives are used to treat mental wellness.

School-based interactions, carried out in collaboration with other government departments, child protection groups, and other stakeholders, are essential. Children are educated about their rights and informed about the resources in place to support them.

In addition, dialogues with children are also conducted to establish secure forums where they can talk about their issues and concerns.

One of the programmes set up by the Department of Social Development to help children is the 365 Days Child Protection Programme of Action. The programme aims to address many elements influencing the lives of South Africa’s children and enhance safety nets for their protection.

Families are essential to the programme given they are primary caregivers raising and looking after the children. The department also provides psychological support and counselling services to the children.

Given the prevalence of digital connectivity in today’s world, protecting children online has become a top priority, with the Bureau of Market Research based at the University of South Africa being commissioned by the Department of Social Development and UNICEF South Africa to carry out a survey that will form part of a worldwide study spanning 14 countries in southern and eastern Africa and southeast Asia.

 Concerning patterns are already emerging, including the high percentage of children who use the internet without their parents’ permission, and who add strangers to their contact list, sending pictures or videos of themselves to unknown people.

The study reveals that a large number of youngsters have been exposed to sexual images online, and victims of online sexual exploitation rarely disclose their experiences, which can have long-term negative effects on their mental health and emotional well-being.

The research emphasises the importance of parental supervision, online safety training, and more robust security measures.

Teenage pregnancy too is a major problem, and frequently impacts the mental health of young mothers. Depression, anxiety, and mental anguish can be exacerbated by the financial constraints, shame, and responsibilities that come with being a teenage mother.

The Department of Social Development, through a number of social welfare initiatives, assists young mothers and plays a vital role in safeguarding children.

“To help prevent unwanted pregnancies and assist those impacted, efforts must be stepped up to guarantee that teenage girls have access to education, reproductive health services, and psychological support,” says Zondo.

Substance use disorders also have detrimental consequences on families and children that cannot be disregarded: impacts can include serious mental health problems like anxiety, dread, and depression, according to the World Health Organisation.

Neglect, emotional trauma, and a higher chance of developing addiction-related issues themselves are common experiences for children raised in homes where substance misuse is common.

Early intervention programmes, community support, and family therapy can all help lessen the detrimental effects of substance misuse on children’s mental health.

The Department of Social Development urges parents, caregivers, families, communities, and government and non-governmental organisations to work together to make sure children are reared in a secure, caring environment that promotes good mental health.

The Child Protection Programme has a number of support systems in place to help children who may be struggling emotionally. These can be reached through the local Department of Social Development offices across the country.

For anyone in need of help, contact:

• The Gender-Based Violence Command Centre helpline – 080 042 8428
• Childline SA has a toll-free helpline – 116