Actress Sivenathi Mabuya shares her mental health journey

The former Scandal! actress opens up on mental health struggles and power of support

Katlego Sekhu

This Mental Health Day, 10 October 2025, South African actress Sivenathi Mabuya is using her platform to speak candidly about her mental health struggles and the support that has helped her navigate them.

“World Mental Health Day has a whole new meaning for me today,” Sivenathi reflects. “Looking back at the journey I’ve been on, I wanted to take a page out of my journal and share it with you.”

She explains that while we often talk about the good, the bad, the highs and lows, we rarely discuss the downward spiral of our mental state.

As a headstrong individual, Sivenathi never imagined it could happen to her. “But the truth is, it can happen to anyone. Not because you are unhappy, weak, or unprepared, but because anxiety can creep in over the smallest things.

Leaving the house for the first time, dressing your new body, or accepting help from loved ones without feeling guilty. These seemingly small challenges can have a crippling effect.”

Fortunately, Sivenathi did not face these struggles alone. “I have the most incredible support system in my family and friends. But I realise not everyone is as lucky. Today, I hope you seek help. I hope you feel seen and heard because you are definitely not the only one. Respect to you for making it this far on your own.”

She concludes with a call to empathy and awareness: “I hope we continue to foster compassion for those affected. Let’s talk more about these topics because chances are someone out there is going through the exact same thing.”

Through her openness, Sivenathi Mabuya reminds us that mental health is a journey, and seeking support is a sign of strength.