Why Therapy Matters in the Black Community

For generations, many African families have survived hardship through resilience, faith, and community support. But when it comes to mental health, silence often replaces support. Words like “therapy” or “counselling” are still met with suspicion, discomfort, or stigma, seen by some as “a white person’s thing” or a sign of weakness. The truth is, everyone experiences stress, trauma, or emotional challenges. And in a country still healing from historical and systemic trauma, combined with daily struggles like poverty, crime, and unemployment, mental health support is not a luxury. It’s a necessity.

The stigma around therapy In many households, especially in older generations, emotional pain is often minimised.

You’re told to pray harder, to be strong, or to keep problems within the family. Seeking therapy is sometimes viewed as airing dirty laundry or “losing your mind.” But emotional wounds, like physical ones, need care to heal. Bottling up feelings can lead

to anxiety, depression, substance abuse, or even suicide. In fact, research by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) shows that depression and suicide rates are rising among Black youth, yet access to culturally sensitive mental health care remains limited.

Why therapy is needed?

Therapy is not just about “talking”, it’s about having a safe, non-judgemental space to process pain, make sense of trauma, and learn tools to cope. It’s about breaking generational cycles of unspoken hurt and learning to set healthy boundaries, manage stress, and build self-worth. Importantly, it also helps to dismantle the idea that suffering in silence is a form of strength. True strength is knowing when to ask for help.

Where to get help

1. SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group): Free 24/7 mental health helpline: 0800 456 789

WhatsApp: 076 882 2775. www.sadag.org.

2. B-Wise (Department of Health Youth Platform): offers mental health info via WhatsApp and online chat: 060 071 7845.

3. iThembalabantu Clinic (Gauteng): offers low-cost counselling in township areas.

4. Free services at public clinics and hospitals: ask to speak to a social worker or psychologist.

Normalising therapy in the community starts with honest conversations and access to safe, culturally aware support.

Seeking help doesn’t mean you’re broken, it