MEN have lost their identity in society, and this is one of the major causes of most problems.
Bafana Nkosi of the Gentlemen Alive Foundation said the GBV and crime rates in Mzansi are high, and most perpetrators are men due to loss of self-identity.
He said most men lack good role models and resort to crime and substance abuse.
Nkosi urged Mzansi men to unite and reclaim their identity.
This was revealed during the Men's Mental Health Movement event held at Dr MD Mvakali's Surgery in Vosloorus, Ekurhuleni, on Sunday, 29 June.
"Men are expected to provide for their families and be role models in the community. However, these days, young boys opt to involve themselves in crime and end up in jail," said Nkosi.
"We need to change the mindset of these young boys and show them that through education, they can achieve their goals."
Justice Mvakali, who was in exile during apartheid, said men's mental illnesses are caused by societal pressures.
"Men need to learn to express themselves and not bottle things up. That's not good for their well-being.
"We must ensure that, as men, we form groups that serve as support structures," said Justice.
Mangaliso Andile Gawe from Keep South Africa Clean Foundation said the initiative will offer men an opportunity to discuss issues.
"I believe men should stop keeping what affects them inside as this often leads to depression. Whenever they have problems, they should seek help and speak to social workers or someone they trust," said Gawe.
Thandeka Mvakali, a clinical psychologist at the Khusela organisation, said: "It's important for me to take more of their mental health and well-being overall in terms of emotional well-being."
Some attendees shared painful stories about absent dads.
One man recounted: "My dad didn't like my brother and I. He gave attention to my three sisters.
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"It pained me that we never had an opportunity to mend our relationship with my dad up until he died. Few weeks before he died, I went to his workplace and when he saw me, he avoided me until I left without speaking to him."
Another attendee shared: "My dad died when I was young, and I had to leave school when I was doing grade 6.
"It was difficult as I had to look after my siblings and had to work in different supermarkets to make ends meet.
"My daughter is doing grade 12 and has asked me to attend her matric dance event. I cannot afford to buy what she needs, but I believe God will provide," he said.
Don Layan from Last Laugh Global Amusement said: "Our vision is to see this movement grow and make an impact on men, especially on young boys."
