THE consequences of a suicide are far-reaching, and while the tragedy means the loss of a precious life, the shock and grief also have far-reaching consequences for the family and loved ones left behind. Caring for and supporting someone who has lost a loved one to suicide can be difficult. Many feel unable to provide support and struggle to understand the depth of distress.
That’s where uMgeni Park resident, Joy Chiang, comes in. She runs SOLOS (Survivors of Loved Ones Suicide), which is a support organisation not only for survivors of suicide but for anyone whose life has been touched by suicide.
Chiang, who is also a member of the Durban North/Umhlanga Crisis Team (DNUCT), began her work as a trauma de-briefer in 2007 and it was a decision that changed the real estate agent’s life.
“I saw an advert in Northglen News in 2007 that the DNUCT were looking for volunteers. It was while on a case at a home where a suicide had just occurred and we were cleaning up the scene because the family were too traumatised by what had just happened. It was at that point that I saw the devastating effects of suicide on those left behind. I began researching and I heard some shocking statistics that made me more determined than ever to make a difference,” she explained.
According to Chiang, statistics show that there is a suicide, and 20 attempted suicides every hour in South Africa.
“I then met with the founder of SOLOS here in Durban and wanted to help out whichever way I could. Tragically, she died from suicide as well and I realised that I could make a difference to people’s lives. Some people have difficulty in knowing what to say or do and feel awkward, uncomfortable and concerned about saying the wrong thing. The stigma attached to suicide can make this even harder. When a loved one dies by suicide, your grief might be heart wrenching and overwhelming. At the same time, you might be consumed by guilt, wondering if you could have done something to prevent your loved one’s death.” she said.
SOLOS, which is run as an extension of the crisis team, has also seen the inception of the annual remembrance and suicide awareness walk along the uMhlanga promenade and is held to coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day.
“When we started we had eight people at the first walk, and this year we had about 200 people attending. We also run a monthly support group meeting (first Monday of every month) at the Pam Golding offices on Swapo Road (Broadway) as well as one in Glenwood for people who have been touched by suicide. It’s extremely rewarding knowing you can make a difference in someone else’s life. I don’t do this for recognition I have a passion to serve the community,” she said.
Knowing Joy Chiang
Name five words that best describe you: “I would say I’m straightforward, honest, joyful, loud and kind-hearted.”
What do you think about when you’re alone in your car? “Where I’m going to next.”
What makes you angry? “People who lie, it just freaks me out.”
Name one thing we don’t know about you: I was a pre-school teacher for 7 years while I lived in Taiwan.
What is your strongest family memory? Family Christmas holidays with my family at Boom Street, Pietermaritzburg (my grandparents’ house).
Community Heroes
Gary lives for his true calling (Hero #1)
Tyron’s aim is community safety (Hero #2)
Jason Ssserves the community (Hero #3)
Carol van Tonder: A lady for any ‘Crisis’ (Hero #4)
Bonni’s brave adventure brings hope (Hero #5)
Alison’s altruism shines through (Hero #6)
An advocate of the counter narrative (Hero #7)
