Matric suicides warning call

WHILE most matrics are counting down the days until they receive their exam results, many are preparing for shock and humiliation.

Failing matric is common among many KZN pupils and for some, this means deciding between facing angry and disappointed parents, and putting an end to their educational struggles.

Almost 10% of teen deaths in South Africa are caused by suicide, with one of the triggers being exam disappointment, according to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag).

Receiving disappointing results can be the final stress that causes teens with undiagnosed depression, or those who undergo a trauma or an experience that makes them more vulnerable, to commit suicide.

Local Psychologist Shelley Hall has expressed that those who attempt to end their lives often see the world in a different light when faced with a life changing situation.

‘Imagine that you’re standing at the top of a very tall building. The stairway is on fire, it was your only way out. You don’t have any way of calling for help.

‘The only thing you can think to do is jump – jump to avoid the pain of the flames burning below you,’ said Hall.

‘This is how those who chose to attempt to end their lives possibly see the world.’

‘Perhaps they have family, teachers and friends, but the flames of crisis they perceive before them are just completely overwhelming and they welcome the escape that death appears to offer.’

While the younger generation is referred to as teenagers and adolescents, in the same breath they are often promoted to adulthood and are expected to act like such.

‘We forget that those terms refer to more than just a number, but actual physical elements in body and brain development.’

‘Teenagers are not fully matured adults and do not process things the same way adults do.’

This is why one needs to be sensitive to this and recognise the child in them.

Failure

When adolescents perceive a loss in their life, such as failing a matric examination or not getting the grade they wanted, it can become completely devastating and all consuming, pushing them to feel death is the only logical option.

Symptoms of suicide include:

Talking or joking about dying.

Romanticising death

Writing morbid stories or poems.

Identifying with heroes or famous people who committed suicide.

Identifying with sad stories and music.

Reckless behaviour or a lot of accidents that result in injury.

Giving away possessions.

Saying goodbye to family and friends as if it’s for the last time.

Seeking out or researching means to kill themselves.

Getting into trouble with authority figures, fighting with friends and family.

Change in peer group.

Using substances.

Depression

Frequently associated with suicide is the presence of a mood disorder, commonly depression.

‘Symptoms and signs of depression can present in a different manner to adults and sometimes it can be difficult to distinguish from the general moodiness people commonly associated with this age group,’ said Hall.

Although depression does not always lead to suicide, children are often placed on medication such as Ritalin for long periods without proper psychological evaluation and treatment.

Symptoms of depression that may be present include:

Mood changes: anger and irritability is seen more commonly in this age group than sadness.

Changes in sleep: always tired in spite of lots of sleep or unable to sleep.

Changes in appetite: no longer hungry, or overeating.

Attention and concentration difficulties.

Unexplained aches and pains.

Psychomotor agitation.

No longer wanting to do the things they previously found enjoyable.

What to do

Communication is such an important element in these cases.

‘While teens await their examination results, they may be pressuring themselves with high expectations for their achievements,’ said Hall.

‘Parents should take the time to talk with them, find out what their goals and dreams are.

‘Ensure that these expectations are realistic. Examine your own expectations for your child. How much emphasis are you putting their grades? Ensure that your child knows while it is important to do well, they are more important.’

Parents should also discuss a possible plan B should things not work out.

‘I commonly hear ‘they didn’t want to listen to me. They had made up their minds so I had no option’.’

‘A clear distinction should be made between not liking what your child has done and not liking them.’

Feelings of rejection and abandonment are strong motivators for suicidal behaviour.

‘Encourage socialising. Monitor your teen’s whereabouts and social media. Alert close family and friends Physical activity has been shown to increase production in chemicals that make us feel happy. There is research showing this aids in combating depression.’

While medications have their place, especially when depression is severe, research has shown therapy such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to be effective in these cases.

Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatrists are specially trained to provide accurate assessment, diagnosis and treatment for individuals and families in these situations.

It is best to consult one of these professionals to develop a treatment plan for your adolescent. For emergencies, take your child to the nearest hospital.

Ngwelezana Hospital has both Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatrists available to treat those who cannot access private health care.