Videos, info-graphics: Teen suicide in the spotlight this week

According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) Suicide is the leading cause of death the age group of 15 to 29 years.

Suicide also touches everyone of all ages, socio-ecocomic groups, races, religions, and gender.

Warning signs of suicide:

• A suddenly deteriorating academic or sport performance
• Fixation on death – talking or joking about suicide even on social media
• Unhealthy peer relationships
• Volatile mood or a sudden change in personality
• Risk-taking behaviours eg. taking drugs or having unprotected sex
• Abusive or dysfunctional family environment
• Eating disorder, self-harm
• Bullying and peer pressure
• Neglecting personal hygiene and appearance
• Giving away prized possessions
• Social isolation or withdrawing from family and friends
• Frequent absenteeism

Some teens are at risk for suicide if:

• They have attempted suicide before
• There is a history of suicide or depression in the family
• They use alcohol or drugs
• They have been sexually or physically assaulted
• They have a chronic illness
• They have a learning disability or a physical disability
• There is family conflict or relationship problems
• There has been a recent loss, family or relationship break-up, or death
• There has been a disruption in their lives such as relocation or change of school and friends
• They have been exposed to violence

Facebook Friday Chat

Join Sadag’s free online #FacebookFriday Q&A chat on Friday,  February 24 at 1pm to  2pm with Clinical Psychologist, Zamo Mbele and again at 7pm to 8pm with Psychologist, Candice Cowen.

Both experts will be available for an hour to answer questions on teen depression, preventing suicide, recognizing warning signs and where to seek help to prevent suicide.

To go directly to Sada’gs Facebook page, click here.

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View the following video to watch what Sadag is all about: