October marks mental health awareness month across the globe. For more than three
decades, the Cape Town International Kite Festival has provided a safe and uplifting space.
People can talk openly about their mental health, free from stigma or fear.
Since its launch in 1994, this flagship event has made a significant impact. Mental health
care organisation Cape Mental Health (CMH) brings together diverse communities. Artists,
ambassadors, mental health care users, volunteers, and supporters unite to share powerful
stories.
Each story shared helps break down barriers. Together, they build a more compassionate
community. Mental health can be discussed without judgment.
Festival details and timing
The festival will take place at the Youngsfield Military Base in Wynberg. It runs on Saturday
25 and Sunday 26 October.
The event follows World Mental Health Day (WMHD). This important day was
commemorated on Friday 10 October.
Global and local themes
This year, the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) has adopted a specific theme.
Their focus is “Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.”
South African Priorities
In South Africa, the South African Federation for Mental Health (SAFMH) addresses local
challenges. Their theme is “Addressing Violence as a Significant Challenge to Mental
Health.”
The violence crisis in Cape Town
CMH warns about persistent violence in Cape Town. Ongoing gang conflicts continue to
plague communities. Gender-based violence remains a serious concern. Alcohol and drugrelated crimes add to the problem. Taxi wars create additional instability.
This violence acts as a daily catastrophe. It creates long-term mental health consequences
for residents.
Impact after democracy
CMH released a press statement highlighting ongoing challenges. Despite more than 30
years of democracy, violent crime remains widespread. Communities find themselves
trapped in cycles of trauma and fear.
Direct effects on adults
Exposure to violence severely erodes mental health. Common conditions include anxiety
and depression. Sleep disturbances affect daily functioning. Post-traumatic stress disorder
(PTSD) develops in many cases. Relationships become strained under constant stress.
Impact on Children and Youth
Children and young people face particular vulnerability when exposed to trauma. They
often experience emotional challenges that disrupt their development. Behavioural
problems frequently emerge. These issues significantly affect their education and future
wellbeing.
Statistical reality
According to WFMH, the statistics are concerning. One in five people exposed to
catastrophes develop a diagnosable mental health condition.
Yet access to quality care remains severely limited. This problem is especially acute in lowand middle-income countries like South Africa.
A preventable crisis
CMH describes the violence crisis as both a social and mental health emergency. However,
the organisation emphasises an important point: this crisis is preventable.
“Violence in South Africa is not inevitable,” the organisation stated. “It’s a result of complex
social, economic and systemic failures.” These failures can be addressed through
coordinated prevention. Better crime intervention is essential. Stronger investment in
mental health services is crucial.
Solutions and support
Greater access to psychosocial support can make a difference. Trauma counselling provides
essential help for survivors. Community-based mental health care offers local solutions.
These services help survivors rebuild their lives. They also reduce the long-term impact of
violence on communities.
Leadership perspective
Professor Ingrid Daniels serves as chief executive officer for CMH. She views this year’s
WMHD as a vital opportunity. The day allows the spotlight to focus on the “catastrophe” of
violence. This violence significantly impacts South Africans’ wellbeing.
“World Mental Health Day is an opportunity to talk about the current situation,” she
explained. “We can call for urgent multi-sectoral responses and solutions. Most
importantly, we urge those affected to seek assistance and access mental health support.”
A message of hope
Professor Daniels shared a powerful reminder for those struggling. “Trauma is not your
fault, but healing is your responsibility.”
She concluded with an encouraging message: “Life gets better when we prioritise mental
health.”
