SA’s high suicide rates

It’s October and international research on seasonal effects on suicide rates suggests that suicide is more prevalent during late spring and early summer which also coincides with end-of-year exam stress.

Research shows that a fifth of South African teenagers have suicidal thoughts and a third of them attempt suicide.

The socio-economic circumstances of a large number of youths contribute to this scenario. A study of Soweto schoolchildren revealed that many of them had felt hopeless and wanted to give up on life.

Many of the children participating in the study had witnessed a traumatic shooting, knife attack or someone being burned. With high unemployment and poverty rates, SA youths are confronted with significant educational and socio-economic demands – an experience that can feel overwhelming and paralysing, especially when trying to deal with the already challenging transitions and adjustments of adolescence and early adulthood.

Most suicidal children do not have access to the help they need.

Risk factors for youth suicide

• if a teenager has tried suicide before
• if there is a history of depression and/or suicide in the family
• if the adolescent uses alcohol or drugs
• they have been sexually or physically abused
• they have a chronic illness
• they have a learning disability or a mental or physical disability
• there are family fights or a poor parent/child relationship
• there has been a recent loss; family or relationship break-up; or death
• there has been a disruption in their life like a change in friends, surroundings, or activities
• they have been exposed to violence

Above information from South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag)

Stigma is a major problem

According to Sadag many teens don’t speak out or get help due to the stigma attached, or in fear of being judged.

Those affected by mental health issues should be educated about teen depression and suicide, empowering them to be able to talk to their loved ones and reach out for help.

SA bottom of barrel

Despite our frightening child mental health statistics, South Africa is in the bottom four countries in the world in the provision of mental health treatment.

Get help

Sadag: It is important to know that if you are feeling depressed or suicidal, you are not alone. There are people who care about you, even if it is a classmate, friend, favourite teacher, principal, family member or even a counsellor at Sadag – we are here to help. Remember that suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. You can get help.

If you are concerned about an adolescent (or adult) at risk of suicide contact the Suicide Crisis Helpline at 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393. The 24-hour helpline can be reached at 0800 12 13 14.