October marks World Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to fostering understanding, empathy, and action around mental health. While conversations about physical health often take centre stage, mental well-being — an equally vital aspect of our lives — still faces stigma, misunderstanding, and barriers to access.
Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing how we think, feel, and act each day. It affects how we handle stress, connect with others, and make decisions. When mental health is compromised, it can manifest as conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia, profoundly impacting one’s quality of life and ability to function.
In recognition of this important observance, Gagasi FM sat down with Dr. Nompumelelo Nkosi, a dynamic social entrepreneur, medical doctor, and youth health advocate who is redefining healthcare innovation in South Africa.
Meet Dr. Nompumelelo Nkosi
Born and raised in Mandeni, KwaZulu-Natal, Dr. Nompumelelo Nkosi has built a remarkable career that bridges medicine, leadership, and philanthropy. A proud alumna of the University of KwaZulu-Natal, she holds a Medical Degree as well as an Advanced Medical Aesthetics Diploma (Cum Laude) from FPD.
Her professional journey is marked by purpose and innovation — she currently serves as the Head Doctor and Marketing Manager at TMMMED, a private medical company that provides clinic and ambulance services across KwaZulu-Natal. Beyond the clinical world, she leads Lelani Group, and drives social change through her non-profit organization, empowering communities and young people to take charge of their health.
How have you seen attitudes towards mental health evolve in South Africa — especially among young professionals and leaders?
I’ve seen a positive shift, particularly among young professionals and leaders. Unfortunately, it often took painful experiences — like rising suicide rates and gender-based violence — for people to begin paying attention to mental health. But now, we’re slowly breaking the silence.
More people understand that mental health is not a weakness or a definition of who you are — it’s simply part of being human. The COVID-19 pandemic played a major role in that realization; it showed us that success means nothing if you’re not okay mentally.
It’s encouraging to see young leaders being more honest about their struggles, more intentional about self-care, and more open to therapy. That gives me so much hope.
You often speak about leadership — how does mental health play a role in effective leadership?
It plays a huge role! Leadership begins with self-awareness — you can’t pour from an empty cup. A mentally healthy leader leads with clarity, empathy, and purpose. When your mind is grounded, your leadership becomes more impactful.
My dad always says, “You can’t fight for others if you’ve given up on yourself.” Whenever he notices I’m not okay, he’ll say, “Mpum-Mpum, remember to live and not just exist.” Those words centre me and remind me that protecting my peace is part of my leadership duty.
What signs should leaders look out for in themselves or their teams that might indicate burnout or declining mental wellbeing?
Losing passion for what once brought you joy is often the first sign. For others, it may show up as constant fatigue, lack of focus, irritability, or withdrawal. Leaders should also notice when team members become unusually quiet, emotional, or begin making frequent mistakes.
As leaders, we must create safe spaces where people can say, “I’m not okay,” without fear of judgment.
Why is it often difficult for people in leadership or high-performance roles to admit when they’re struggling mentally?
Because there’s pressure to always appear strong and in control. I’ve had moments where I smiled through exhaustion just to keep going — until I realized that vulnerability is strength. When leaders are honest about their struggles, they give others permission to be human too.
How can workplaces create psychologically safe environments that encourage open conversations about mental health?
During my internship as a new doctor, I struggled emotionally with certifying deaths — it never got easier. When I asked a senior if it does, she said, “You’ll get used to it.” But I told myself I never want to get used to that. That experience made me realize the importance of open conversations about how we feel at work.
It starts with culture, not campaigns. Leaders must model openness, not just talk about it. Workplaces should include regular check-ins — not just performance reviews. Even asking, “How are you really doing?” can make a huge difference.
I often think of the late Dr. Mazwi — his passing reminded us of the toll that long hours, high stress, and limited resources take on healthcare workers. We need workplaces that prioritize both well-being and compassion.
What are some small but powerful daily habits that help maintain good mental health in fast-paced environments?
I believe in small daily resets. For me, it’s prayer — and a little dance in my prayer corner! Sometimes it’s calling my seven-year-old nephew for a silly chat that instantly lifts my mood.
Some habits I recommend:
- Listen to your favourite radio station every morning (like Gagasi FM).
- Create a feel-good playlist.
- Journal — even just one line about how you feel.
- Have a “go-to person” to talk to.
- Reframe stressful thoughts into positive ones.
- And most importantly — rest.
For those who can’t easily access therapy or professional mental health care, what practical steps can they take to support their mental well-being?
I’d love to see more accessible mental health support in our communities. But in the meantime — talk to someone. It could be a friend, parent, or mentor. There’s healing in expressing what you feel.
Find small routines that bring you peace — walking, prayer, music, journaling, baking. You don’t need expensive tools to care for your mind. Consistency, community, and compassion are powerful healers. Sometimes, even an ice cream moment — as my best friend says — can do wonders for your spirit.
How important is physical health — like sleep, diet, and exercise — to maintaining strong mental health?
They’re deeply connected; you can’t have one without the other. When you move your body, you move your mood. Quality sleep balances brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, while regular exercise releases endorphins — your natural stress relievers.
Eating well, resting enough, and staying active are not just physical habits — they’re mental health strategies too. I always tell my patients: move your body, nourish your mind, and rest well. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential.
There’s still stigma around mental health, especially in communities of colour. How do we start breaking those barriers?
We break the stigma by speaking up — especially as leaders, professionals, and within our families. If we normalize these conversations at home, that’s already a huge step.
We must also use local languages, community dialogues, and storytelling. Real healing happens when we meet people where they are, not where we think they should be.
How can we encourage men to prioritize their mental health and seek help when needed?
We need to redefine strength. I’ve been privileged to serve under the leadership of Hon. Premier Mr. T. Ntuli in the KZN Climate Change & Sustainable Development Council, where I learned that “true strength isn’t silence — it’s honesty.”
Men must know that talking about emotions doesn’t make them weak; it makes them real. Courage starts with men influencing other men — in their families, friendships, and leadership roles. Strength is found in self-awareness and support.
What message would you like to share with Gagasi FM listeners who might be silently struggling with their mental health today?
May you find the strength to open your heart to receiving help — because you are not alone. Your feelings are valid, and asking for help is not a sign of failure.
Life can be heavy, but you are stronger than you think. Reach out to someone you trust — a friend, family member, or professional. You still have purpose, even in your pain. And please, love yourself through the hard days too.
POV: A key component of maintaining mental health is building resilience—the ability to adapt to adversity and bounce back from difficult experiences. Life’s challenges, such as job stress, financial difficulties, relationship problems, and personal losses, can take a toll on mental health. Resilience helps individuals manage these stressors in a way that minimizes their impact on overall well-being.
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