"Male Loneliness Epidemic": Mzansi Debates Why Male Hospital Wards Feel the Saddest
- A TikTok video sparked debate after highlighting how male hospital wards are often empty and emotionally heavy compared to others
- The discussion unpacked social behaviour, emotional distance and why some men struggle with support during illness
- Personal hospital experiences shared by other netizens and nurses online gave the topic depth and made it hit close to home
- Briefly News reached out to Nurse Imelda, an ICU and occupational health specialist, and Nurse Sikie Ntswanhlana to understand why male hospital wards often feel the saddest and the impact of fewer visitors on patients
Behind the quiet halls of male hospital wards lies a sobering insight into masculinity, a life shaped by isolation, distance, and unspoken struggles.
Source: UGC
A TikTok video posted by @mogirl_witha_plan on 14 December 2025 sparked a nationwide discussion after she shared what she had heard about hospital wards in South Africa. In the clip, the woman explained that male hospital wards are often described as the saddest sections in hospitals. She said this observation comes from conversations and experiences shared by others, particularly women, who believe many men, especially when they are in their prime, tend to be rude, distant or dismissive towards people around them. According to the video, this behaviour later results in isolation during times of illness, when men are admitted to hospital and receive little to no support or visits.
The discussion added deeper context around relationships, family dynamics and emotional habits among men. The video suggested that some men prioritise friendships and romantic relationships while neglecting family bonds, assuming those connections will always be there when needed. Nurses and healthcare workers added valuable insight, explaining that male wards are often empty during visiting hours, with fewer relatives showing up. This pattern raised questions about how society raises men to handle emotions, conflict and long-term relationships, especially when compared to the support systems women often maintain throughout their lives.
Why men lack support in the hospital
User @mogirl_witha_plan’s video quickly gained traction because many people could relate to the experiences being described. Viewers shared similar hospital stories, including accounts of long-term patients receiving no visitors, while others had consistent family support. One story highlighted a man who spent a year in the hospital without visitors, relying on fellow patients for conversation and basic help.
PAY ATTENTION: stay informed and follow us on Google News!
Mzansi responded with a mix of sadness, reflection and uncomfortable honesty. Many people acknowledged the growing prevalence of emotional isolation among men, while others pointed to shifting family expectations and increased accountability. The conversation opened space for empathy, but also for tough discussions about responsibility, emotional maturity and the consequences of neglecting meaningful relationships.
Nurse Imelda noted to Briefly News that male patients generally receive fewer visitors than female patients.
“Yes, from my experience as a nurse with over 10 years in practice, male patients tend to receive fewer visitors compared to female patients. This is a pattern I have consistently observed across different settings.”
She explained how the lack of visitors affects both emotional well-being and practical aspects of hospital care.
“Beyond the emotional impact, a lack of visitors can create practical challenges in hospital care. In some cases, it becomes difficult to obtain consent for procedures such as operations, scans, or blood transfusions when there is no family member readily available. Some patients also lack basic toiletries or personal items because there is no regular visitor to assist with these needs, which can affect their comfort and sense of dignity. In more serious situations, when a patient passes away, there may be limited or no reachable contacts on record. This can delay the process of notifying family members and may require assistance from external services to locate and inform relatives, which can be a lengthy and distressing process. All of this contributes to feelings of isolation and can negatively affect a patient’s overall hospital experience.”
Nurse Imelda also shared practical ways families and hospital staff can help male patients feel less isolated.
“Small, consistent actions can make a meaningful difference. For hospital staff, taking a few extra minutes to check in emotionally, clearly explaining procedures, and involving patients in simple decisions can help patients feel seen, respected and supported. Even brief conversations during routine care can reduce feelings of isolation. For families, regular visits or phone calls, bringing basic personal items such as toiletries, comfortable clothing or reading material, and remaining reachable for consent discussions are very helpful. When in-person visits aren’t possible, scheduled calls or messages can still provide reassurance. These small gestures help maintain a patient’s dignity, emotional well-being and support recovery.”
Nurse Ntswanhlana noted that male patients do receive visitors, much like other patients, but the absence of regular support can still take a visible emotional toll.
“When patients don’t receive visits, they often start feeling neglected and believe that no one cares about them. This can lead to emotional distress and, in some cases, depression.”
She added that family presence plays a crucial role in a patient’s healing process, as hospitalisation affects more than just physical health.
“When someone is admitted, all aspects of their life are impacted. Emotional and family support becomes just as important as medical treatment.”
According to her, small but meaningful acts can make a noticeable difference in a patient’s recovery.
“Compassion, care, love and consistent support help patients feel seen and valued, which contributes positively to their overall wellbeing.”
Source: TikTok
Here’s what Mzansi had to say
WendyM wrote:
“I wish to go there every month just to get a bit of excitement.”
Thandile Jojozi wrote:
“This is so satisfying to hear.”
Shupi wrote:
“I visited my brother in the hospital, and he asked me to bring food and toiletries for the guy next to him because no one visits him.”
HER Collection wrote:
“Someone said we’re giving our dads space the same way they gave us space in their prime.”
CelebrityVill wrote:
“I’m a nurse, it’s true.”
Karabo Tshiamo Mosel wrote:
“The way I would be so satisfied seeing their loneliness and sadness.”
Black_Previllage🇿🇦 wrote:
“People show up for people who show up for them.”
Kris Tina wrote:
“As a nurse who previously worked in a male ward, I can confirm this.”
Check out the TikTok video below:
3 Other Briefly News stories related to hospitals
- The Democratic Alliance commented on a crisis that broke out at the Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital in Johannesburg.
- A female runner died in hospital after being hit by a taxi during the Soweto Marathon, shocking her family and the running community.
- A young man, after spending a year in the ICU following a near-fatal car accident, was filmed leaving the ward to begin his rehabilitation journey.
PAY ATTENTION: Follow Briefly News on Twitter and never miss the hottest topics! Find us at @brieflyza!
Source: Briefly News
