Former The Mommy Club star Ratile Mabitsela opened up about her personal experience with depression and suicide in an Instagram message shared for World Suicide Prevention Day.
“I can’t discuss mental health without looking at my own life,” she wrote, explaining that parts of her recovery might give someone else the strength to continue.
Ratile said she has experienced depression both personally and through a relationship with someone who also struggled with it. Her journey, she explained, includes surviving a suicide attempt and later losing her partner to suicide.
A separate entertainment update reported that Arthur Mafokate had shared funeral arrangements for his father, Enos Mafokate, under the words, “To us, you were dad.”
Lehlogonolo Mabitsela died in February 2025, shortly after he and Ratile celebrated their twins’ seventh birthday. At the time, the couple were reportedly estranged and involved in divorce proceedings.
Ratile later confirmed in an exclusive interview that the situation had become “even worse” when she spoke about his death soon after the first reports emerged.
In her latest message, she stressed that her disclosure was intended to raise awareness, not attract sympathy. She noted that depression can remain hidden from view and may become fatal when a person lacks the treatment and support they require.
She encouraged people to contact those they care about, offer themselves as a safe person to talk to and support loved ones in finding professional assistance. Ratile also identified therapy, medication, prayer and meditation as possible elements of the healing process.
“Today, I hold space for those who attempted suicide and survived,” she wrote. She also remembered those who died and the families still carrying their grief, ending the post with “Love & Light.”
Quick facts
- SADAG’s 24-hour Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0800 567 567, free seven days a week
- SADAG SMS service: text 31393 for a counsellor to call back
- SADAG Mental Health Line: 011 234 4837
- Department of Social Development Substance Abuse Line: 0800 12 13 14
- LifeLine South Africa: free, confidential counselling available 24/7
- Childline: free 24/7 assistance for anyone under 18
