Nthabiseng aims to help others heal through her suicide story
Nthabiseng Ngoepe, who is a suicide survivor became an author who aims to give hope to those who have lost all hope, through relating her life journey.
POLOKWANE – Around 70% of those who attempt to commit suicide suffer from a mental disorder, and depression is by far the most common in this regard.
This is according to figures from the South African Depression and Anxiety group (Sadag), and shedding light on a topic that is largely taboo is one of the aims of Mental Health Awareness Day, that was commemorated on Monday.
Nthabiseng Ngoepe, who is a suicide survivor became an author who aims to give hope to those who have lost all hope, through relating her life journey.
Ngoepe is a philanthropist, pastor and an attorney who is fueled by a passion to serve people.
She said the motivation behind her first book came from prayer and meditation which has assisted her own healing process.
You might also want to read: Suicide through the eyes of a Polokwane woman
She spoke to BONUS on how her journey from being a suicide survivor, has led to that of becoming an author.
“Suicide is a real pandemic and one that is cancerous to society. The book takes readers through the journey that shaped my perspective of life as it details parts of my life that shaped patterns to what I have overcome.”
Ngoepe told BONUS that it was initially relationship issues, and later economic reasons that were behind her reasoning to end things.
“Eventually, I became a suicidal mother of two and I took pills.”
She says, however, that she always knew there was a force greater than herself which kept her alive.
“I knew there was a greater purpose that God still has for me.”
Ngoepe said that having a better awareness of her mental health and being more guarded in terms of what she permits into her mental space, are what maintain her peace and joy today.
In this sense, the public space in which the book has placed her, can at times become uncomfortable, she said.
The book encourages discussions around feeling overwhelmed and of being realistic about life’s imperfections every day.
In light of mental health awareness the entire month of October is devoted to raising awareness on the topic.
Social worker David Kgatle, from the Limpopo Mental Health Society says mental health challenges can be overcome before they escalate.
“Commemorating mental health awareness is important to bring attention to problems that people face on a daily basis.”
For face to face counselling with a social worker in the province, the Limpopo Mental Health Society can be contacted at (015) 307 4732 for any mental health related services.
