Depression major cause of suicide
The occurrence of teenage suicide is becoming more common every year.
After the recent incident of a Grade 11 Hoërskool Hugenote learner’s suicide, questions were raised on why suicide is accounting for 9% of all teen deaths.
Suicide is a desperate attempt to escape the suffering that has become unbearable.
People who are suicidal are in so much pain that they cannot see another option.
Taryn Gilbertson of Lifeline says there is a definite connection between suicide and depression.
Depression, a mood disorder, leads to a person feeling trapped, overwhelmed and sometimes hopeless.
She says any suicidal talk should be taken seriously because it is a cry for help.
Anyone can be at task, regardless of race or gender.
Certain factors can increase the risk of committing suicide like previous suicide attempts, substance abuse, especially with depression, poor communication at home, exposure to violence in the family, access to firearms and suicidal behaviour of a family member or friend.
She says teenagers sometimes find it difficult to see the positive side of a situation and get stuck in negative thinking.
Parents can identify possible depression in their children by being aware when they are feeling down or cry most of the day, lose interest in most activities, lose weight, a change in appetite, sleep too much or to little, thinking about death or suicide.
But besides depression, academic and relationship problems, stress, abuse, bullying, poverty, family conflict problems at school, alcohol or substance abuse and other physical problems may also be the cause of suicidal behaviour.
It is believed depression and suicide rates soar in the spring.
With the world renewing itself with flowers in bloom, tree blossoms and green grass, some people might still feel helpless and worthless.
With our busy lives and schedules it is often difficult to make time for others, but reaching out to a friend who may be alone might be just the thing to prevent them from committing suicide.
Sheldon Richards, a Grade 11 pupil at Hoërskool Hugenote and friend of the girl who recently committed suicide, says all of the girl’s friends blame themselves for not trying to understand better.
“But due to this incident their circle of friends closer are now closer than ever.
Taryn says if a person is concerned about a friend or family member they should try and engage with them regarding their troubles.
Listen to them in a non-judgemental and supportive way and encourage them to seek professional help.
If they are reluctant to see a counsellor, give them LifeLine Ekurhuleni’s 24-hour emergency counselling number 011 422 4242, where they can call at any time day or night.
Parents can protect their children by getting informed about suicide.
Taryn says parents must support their children and try to understand their feelings and behaviours without being judgemental.
Parents should ask for help and consider advice from a trained counsellor, psychologist or doctor.
She says a young girl she once worked with, who had previously attempted suicide, said she would like to tell others who consider suicide that ‘You are so much more than you are in this moment, don’t give up, remain strong and reach out for help’.
Schools offer counselling to learners suffering from depression or with suicidal attempts by referring them to a school-based support team which in return will refer the student to a psychologist or counsellor.
Another toll-free helpline for depression sufferers is 0800 205 026, which is manned by trained South African Depression and Anxiety Group counsellors on call from 8am to 8pm.
