Mental health the missing piece in youth development

EVERY day young South Africans face challenges beyond unemployment, they battle hopelessness, trauma and anxiety. While government plans often focus on job creation and skills development, there’s neglect on the deeper, less visible crisis that’s unfolding and that is the mental health of our youth is deteriorating.

- SIMNIKIWE XANGA

We continue to overlook the emotional well-being of those expected to contribute and build our future. Economic empowerment efforts will continue to fall short unless mental health becomes a central pillar of South Africa's youth development strategy. According to Statistics South Africa (2025), youth unemployment remains a staggering challenge, with 46.1% South Africans aged 15-34 unemployed in the first quarter of the year. Even more concerning, 62.4% of young people aged 15-24 are unable to find work. This reflects not only an economic crisis but a deeper social and psychological toll that continues to threaten the well-being and potential of an entire generation.

Studies show that untreated depression and anxiety reduce productivity, impair learning and increase dropout rates. A young person struggling with trauma may have challenges focusing on upskilling, entrepreneurship, or job interviews.