Broadcast date: 30 September 2025
Guest: Dr Melane van Zyl – Member of the South African Society of Psychiatrists
Hosts: Breakfast with Friends Team on CCFM 107.5 FM
Introduction
On 30 September 2025, Breakfast with Friends on CCFM 107.5 FM hosted Dr Melane van Zyl, a member of the South African Society of Psychiatrists, for an eye-opening conversation about the mental health crisis in South Africa. The discussion revolved around a startling statistic: 92% of South Africans living with mental illness are not receiving treatment.
“We need to take mental health more seriously. The problem stands — 92 percent of South Africans with a mental illness never receive treatment. No wonder we see so much violence and distress in our country. As followers of Jesus Christ, as the body of Christ, we need to stand up and make a difference.”
Breakfast with Friends Team on CCFM 107.5 FM
Dr van Zyl began by explaining the primary reasons behind the lack of access to mental health care. South Africa, she said, simply doesn’t have enough psychiatrists, psychologists, and other mental health professionals to meet the demand. The national health budget also falls short of funding adequate mental health services, and many citizens — especially those in rural areas — are unable to travel long distances to seek help. Unemployment, trauma, and the sheer size of the country add further layers of difficulty. “It’s quite a big problem,” she admitted.
When asked what mental health services currently look like across the country, Dr van Zyl painted a sobering picture. Even in wealthier, developed nations, one-on-one psychiatric care has become difficult to sustain — and South Africa lags far behind global benchmarks. In rural communities, the situation is especially dire. “More than nine out of ten people don’t receive the care they need because those services are simply not available where they are,” she noted.
Beyond the lack of resources, stigma remains a major barrier to care. Dr van Zyl emphasised the importance of addressing mental health at a community level — in schools, workplaces, and social settings — where people can be supported where they already are. “Communities need to be empowered to assist adults, children, and employees,” she said. “Stigma is a big problem everywhere, and cultural factors often make it worse.”
The interview also touched on the vital role of churches and faith communities. The hosts reminded listeners that CCFM, as a Christian radio station, reaches many people connected to local congregations. They suggested that emotional intelligence and open conversations within faith circles could help break down barriers. Dr van Zyl wholeheartedly agreed, sharing that she still teaches Sunday school herself. “You have to meet people where they are,” she said. “Religion still plays a big role. Many people first go to their church or community service for help, so we need to build relationships between churches and mental health professionals.”
When it comes to practical help, Dr van Zyl encouraged listeners to start with accessible resources. She highlighted the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) as an excellent first point of contact, noting that their website offers many useful tools. For those unable to reach a specialist, she advised beginning with a local GP, psychologist, or clinic nurse, who can provide guidance or referrals. “It’s not always necessary to see a specialist right away,” she explained. “What’s important is that people can access help at the right level.”
As the conversation drew to a close, the hosts reflected on the broader implications of the crisis. They urged listeners to take mental health seriously, pointing out that the lack of treatment contributes to many of the social problems South Africa faces today. “As followers of Jesus Christ, we need to stand up and make a difference,” they concluded.
Dr Melane van Zyl ended the segment by thanking the hosts for the opportunity to raise awareness, reminding listeners that compassion and connection are vital parts of the solution.