# Self-reported mental health effects of unemployment on young people in Mdantsane, South Africa: A qualitative study

## TL;DR

This study explores how unemployment affects the mental health of young people in Mdantsane, South Africa, highlighting stress, isolation, and the importance of social support.

## Contribution

The study provides new qualitative insights into the mental health effects of unemployment on young people in a South African township.

## Key findings

- Unemployment leads to mental health issues like stress, anxiety, and social isolation among young people.
- Social support and interdependent relationships help buffer the negative mental health effects of unemployment.
- The study emphasizes the need for targeted mental health interventions in high-unemployment areas.

## Abstract

South Africa has been experiencing a persistently high unemployment rate among young people. This high youth unemployment is a stressor to young people, which may culminate in mental health issues.

The study aimed to describe the self-reported mental health effects of unemployment among young people in Mdantsane township, Eastern Cape province.

The study was conducted in Mdantsane township, at the Lingomso Youth Centre in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa.

A descriptive qualitative approach was used. Participants were recruited purposively until data saturation. Data were collected through individual face-to-face interviews. Thematic analysis was conducted using a six-step approach.

The sample comprised 19 young people aged between 19 years and 29 years, and most were men. Two themes emerged: theme one was negative effects, which were characterised by substance use, feelings of worthlessness, stress and anxiety, masking of personality, and social isolation; theme two was that social support buffered the potential adverse effects of unemployment, and this was supported by interdependent role relationships that protected individuals from the effects of unemployment.

There is a need to recognise mental health issues emanating from unemployment, like social isolation, to enable comprehensive, appropriate interventions for young people.

This study contributes to understanding mental health issues experienced by unemployed young people. Findings can be used to develop targeted interventions in a large township, such as Mdantsane, in South Africa.