UKZN PhD Graduate Explores Young Men’s Mental Health in KwaZulu-Natal

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A newly-awarded PhD from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is shedding critical light on the emotional struggles of young men living in some of South Africa’s most vulnerable communities.

Dr Princess Nyoni graduated with a PhD in Public Health Medicine for her research exploring emotion regulation strategies among young men in rural areas and urban informal settlements in KwaZulu-Natal. Her study revealed a concerning picture: many young men are grappling with emotional dysregulation - a difficulty in understanding and managing emotions - which is closely linked to mental health challenges, violence, and risky HIV behaviours. The study, supervised by Professor Mitsuaki Tomita from UKZN and Dr Andy Gibbs from the Department of Psychology at the University of Exeter, United Kingdom; resulted in three publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Through in-depth interviews with young men aged 18 to 30, Nyoni found that emotional struggles are deeply rooted in poverty, unemployment, and adverse childhood experiences, including the absence of father figures. Participants described feeling overwhelmed by pressure to fulfil traditional roles as providers, often without the means to do so. This tension frequently manifests as frustration, anger, and emotional distress.

The study highlighted that many young men rely on unhealthy coping strategies, such as suppressing emotions or turning to alcohol, drugs, and sex to numb their feelings.

These behaviours are strongly influenced by societal expectations of masculinity, which discourage vulnerability and emotional expression. As a result, many men lack the tools to process emotions constructively.

One of the most alarming findings is the link between poor emotional regulation and impulsive behaviour, including violence, particularly against intimate partners, as well as increased engagement in behaviours that elevate HIV risk. Nyoni’s research also shows that emotional distress often disrupts young men’s ability to focus on education, maintain employment, and sustain healthy relationships, ultimately affecting their long-term prospects.

The study also found a significant gap in accessible mental health support, with many participants indicating they had never had the opportunity to openly discuss their emotions before. Nyoni’s study recommendations emphasised the urgent need for community-based mental health services that are responsive to young men’s lived realities, integrating emotional support with economic strengthening and gender-transformative approaches.

This research contributes valuable local insight into the intersection of mental health, gender norms, and social inequality in South Africa, including their links to violence and HIV risk. As the country continues to grapple with the dual challenges of mental health and social inequality, this study conveys a powerful message: supporting young men’s emotional well-being is essential for building healthier, safer communities.

Words: MaryAnn Francis

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini