Breaking the silence: the importance of mental health awareness

IN OUR dynamic world, the importance of mental health is seen in its relevance to all individuals. Addressing mental health concerns is a universal necessity.

As Zee Miss India South Africa, my mission is to use my platform to destigmatise this critical issue. My eyes were truly opened in a focus group with diverse individuals who all shared a common thread: within their communities, mental illness is still a taboo subject.

The reality is that most communities still view mental health as something to be hidden, when it should be recognised for its power in shaping young minds, building businesses, sustaining economies, and transforming individuals. Without a positive mental state, we simply cannot unlock our full potential, nor can we build a future that is resilient, compassionate, and prosperous.

The silence surrounding mental health is a profound and dangerous one. It breeds misunderstanding, shame, and isolation. So often, people are told to "be strong," "pray harder," or simply "get over it," as if mental health challenges are a sign of weakness rather than a health concern, but mental health is as important as physical health.

The current world prioritises external appearances over internal experiences, and we can so easily fall prey to these unrealistic expectations. The stigma prevents people from seeking the help they desperately need, and we, as a society, can no longer afford to ignore this form of silent suffering. It is crucial to create safe spaces where all individuals feel comfortable sharing their experiences without fear of judgement.

Bridging this gap can start with small, everyday conversations with family and friends. Simply being intentional in asking "How are you really doing?" can open the door to a much-needed dialogue. 

My journey has shown me how a simple act of vulnerability can encourage others to open up. Destigmatising mental health is not just about big campaigns or social media posts; it is about fostering empathy and compassion in every interaction. It is about teaching our children that it is okay not to be okay and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

We must challenge the harmful stereotypes that are passed down through generations. Phrases like “man up” or “don’t cry like a girl” create unrealistic expectations. These messages build a hidden layer of anxiety and stress, forcing our children to conform to what society expects. This can result in trauma and greater mental health challenges in adulthood for the very people we hope will become our future leaders, parents, and teachers.

We must work together to dismantle the misconceptions by educating ourselves on the signs of mental distress. We need to understand that conditions like depression, anxiety, and burnout are real, valid illnesses that require professional care. Just as we would not hesitate to see a doctor for a physical ailment, we should not hesitate to seek help from a therapist or counsellor for a mental health issue.

By modelling open communication and acceptance, we can create a generation that prioritises mental well-being alongside physical health. The journey to a mentally healthy society is a long one, but it is one we need to embark on with courage and determination.

My work is just a small part of a larger movement, and I am humbled to be a voice for change. I urge you all to join me in this mission - to challenge the taboos, to lend a listening ear, and to become advocates for a future where everyone has the support they need to thrive. When we treat mental health with the respect and urgency it deserves, we can unlock the true potential of our communities. Together, we can move from silence to solidarity from ignorance to understanding and from stigma to support.   

Kiara Govender has an honours degree in psychology, and is a passionate voice for mental health and women's empowerment. Beyond pageantry and social activism, she is an entrepreneur and a volunteer teacher, with a background in classical Indian music and Bharatha Natyam. Follow her journey on mental health via her Instagram account, @kiaragovender__.

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