Breaking the Silence on Men's Mental Health

 

By Fred Felton | July 17, 2025

John Craig, in partnership with Polo South Africa, has launched the Mind Matters video series, featuring iconic footballer Lucas Radebe, Leon de Beer (Director of the South African Federation for Mental Health), and designer David Tshabalala.

The Mind Matters Video Series 

The campaign shines a light on some sobering stats:

South Africa records around 13,774 suicides per year, about 80% of which are men.

Worldwide 75% of suicides are men, many of whom never seek help due to stigma and traditional gender norms.

According to a review in the SA Journal of Psychology men across occupations experience high levels of depression, anxiety and burnout, often quietly.

‘’Mental and emotional resilience is key to unlocking one’s true potential. With this initiative, John Craig and Polo South Africa are shining a light on the mental health struggles men face worldwide, especially as issues like depression, anxiety and suicide continue to rise among men,’’ said John Craig Senior Brand Manager, Kaboomo Mgibi Marshoff.

Leon de Beer called for workplaces and communities to create safe spaces where men can freely express emotional struggles without fear of judgement.

‘’My wife was diagnosed with cancer when I was still playing. I still had to focus. I still had to go and train every day and give 100%, which is challenging because you can’t share with friends. There are no excuses,’’ noted Lucas Radebe.

For David Tshabalala maintaining a healthy work life balance is key to nurturing good mental health.

Marshoff invited men everywhere to watch the full series on the @JohnCraig YouTube channel and to join the conversation using #JohnCraigMindMatters.

The good folks at John Craig are also giving away 2 x R500 John Craig Vouchers for you dear reader.

To enter the lucky draw, send your full name, cell number and email to umhlangalife@gmail.com  with John Craig Giveaway in the subject line.

Ts and Cs apply.