The old adage 'a problem shared is a problem halved' has never been more powerful than now.  I can certainly agree to this as difficult as it has been for me to reach out to loved ones and talk about my anxieties, jeopardizing a lot of relationships. I’m sure a lot of other people are also going through the same. It is something that I need to do more of (reaching out without feeling ashamed), instead of allowing my demons to push me back into a dark corner where I sometimes feel like there is no light at the end of the tunnel (at a particular moment when that darkness suddenly knocks on my door unannounced).

According to a recent survey on Covid-19 and mental health conducted by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), 65% of the 1214 respondents admitted to feeling stressed as a result of South Africa’s lockdown, while more than half (55%) said that anxiety and panic were challenges they had personally experienced.

That is why during June and July, Metropolitan is encouraging South Africans to talk about their experiences linked to the pandemic through their new campaign called ‘Three Word Stories’, providing easy-to-use steps that will help consumers navigate the “new normal”.

Each week, Metropolitan will use the airwaves as well as print and digital media to enable dialogue on a variety of issues, ranging from education to parenting in the time of Covid-19.

“With so much responsibility on their shoulders, people may feel incapable of vocalising their own fears and anxieties. We wanted to remind our audience that their voices are powerful, and that by sharing these stories, they will encourage others to do the same,” explains Llewellyn Allen, Head of Marketing: Metropolitan.

Well-known personalities such as Dr Musa Mthombeni and motivational speakers Malibonge Xaba, Hector Mathebe, Keabetswe Jan, Lehlohonolo Thoabala and Abongile Mangala will spearhead the campaign in partnership with radio personalities, who will take to the airwaves and facilitate the conversations.