World Mental Health Day was observed last week and young people were at the centre of the global debate. But according to the South African Federation for Mental Health (SAFMH), the country’s “culture of violence” is one of the reasons for the rising suicide rate among children and adolescents.
A 'Birth to twenty study' released early this year, found that virtually every single child surveyed in Soweto – 99% – has been exposed to, not just violence, but “extreme forms of violence”.
Exposure to violence can lead to negative consequences regardless of your age, particularly in young people. It can lead to developing mental health illnesses, problems with social relationships and it can impact on your education and work opportunities.
— Amy Green - Senior Reporter
The rate of rape and violence in South Africa has been compared to a war zone because it is incredibly high. According to the South African Federation for Mental Health, women who have been exposed to gender-based violence experience extreme levels of depression, panic and substance abuse.
— Amy Green - Senior Reporter
Take a listen to the interview below:
This article first appeared on 702 : Rates of violence in South African on a par with those of war zones - study
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