Sadag takes note with concern the increase in suicidal emergencies

Following the recent death of Jabulani Tsambo, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) have been overwhelmed with calls from people who feel completely helpless, hopeless and desperate for crisis intervention for depression and even suicide.

Of late, Sadag experienced a great number of additional suicide callers, concerned family members and even work colleagues calling in to ask for help, information and emergency intervention.

With end-of-year examinations around the corner, learners, especially Grade 12 learners, may start to feel the pressure of succeeding and, thus, even consider drastic steps such as suicide.

Studies have shown that most suicide attempts have been preceded by clear warning signs.

According to Sadag, parents should always take the warning signs of teen suicide seriously, and to seek help if you think your teen may be suicidal.

Here are some of the signs to look out for:

• Disinterest in favourite extracurricular activities.
• Substance abuse.
• Withdrawing from family and friends.
• Sleep pattern changes.
• Changes in eating habits.
• Neglecting hygiene and other matters of personal appearance.
• Hard time concentrating.
• Drop in school grades.
• Loss of interest in schoolwork.
• Risk-taking behaviour.
• Does not respond, as before, to praise.

Not all of these warning signs will be present in cases of possible teen suicide. There are many cases in which a good student commits suicide.

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Support available as an increase in suicides among the youth

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