In a bold move to address the growing concern of teenage suicide, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) recently visited a local school, engaging over 1200 learners in a vital conversation about mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
The initiative, funded by the Matthew Goniwe Centre for Leadership and Governance and the Gauteng Department of Education, was sparked by a concerned senior educational specialist who recognised the need for open dialogue on this critical issue.
According to SADAG, over 75% of people who have taken their lives in South Africa have told someone first to give some sort of a sign. One in four teens has feelings of suicide and teens are the most at-risk age group for suicide in South Africa.
Roshini Parbhoo-Seetha of SADAG emphasized the importance of identifying warning signals that may indicate a teenager is struggling with suicidal thoughts.
These include:
• Talking or joking about suicide.
• Depression or changes in mood.
• Withdrawal from family and friends.
• Preparing for death.
• Changes in personality or appearance.
Additionally, SADAG addressed educators on how to identify the signs in learners and advised them to also invest in their mental health.
SADAG also has a programme called “Suicide Shouldn’t be a Secret” where SADAG trainees go to schools to talk to learners from grades eight to 12 about suicide, emphasizing that help is always available.
The programme involves school safety officers from local police stations so the learners know who to talk to.
Learners can contact SADAG’s toll-free number at 0800 567 567, send an SMS to 31393, or WhatsApp 087 163 2030 for support.
By breaking the silence and sparking conversations, SADAG aims to create a safer, more supportive environment for teenagers to open up about their struggles and find hope in the darkness.
