A dramatic incident brought traffic to a standstill on the N3 after a man threatened to jump from the Grey Avenue bridge into oncoming traffic below on June 18.

Shortly before 17:00, motorists reported seeing an individual perched on the edge of the bridge, poised to hurl himself onto the fast-moving N3 lanes.

Traffic police immediately halted vehicle flow and diverted motorists onto alternative routes. The disruption left commuters stranded for hours as authorities worked to secure the scene.

Emergency responders, including negotiators and mental health-trained paramedics, quickly attended and initiated a sensitive and professional negotiation process. After several tense minutes, they successfully convinced the man to step back and escorted him to safety.

Community and expert reaction

The Alberton Record spoke to Dr Frans Korb, psychiatrist, clinical psychologist, and SADAG board member, about the critical importance of recognising and addressing suicidal thoughts, especially among men, while aligning his insights with SADAG’s mission and June’s designation as Men’s Health Month.

Korb emphasised that when suicidal ideation emerges, no matter how justified or overwhelming one’s situation feels, seeking professional support promptly can be life-saving. He explained that men often interpret these thoughts as a personal failure or weakness, but intervention can halt escalation and open pathways to recovery.

“Stigma is the principal obstacle. Men are taught to be the strongest, to never show vulnerability. This societal expectation frequently leads to denial and isolation. Other factors include fear of being perceived as weak, lack of awareness about mental health resources, and difficulties navigating the support system,” Korb said.

He urged normalising mental health conversations and increasing visibility of male-friendly support channels, such as SADAG’s helplines and support groups. Campaigns highlighting role models who have sought help can also dismantle harmful stereotypes.

Immediate steps in acute crisis situations

When a loved one or bystander confronts someone in crisis, Dr Korb recommends:

• Approach calmly and avoid confrontation.

• Listen empathetically, acknowledging their pain without judgement.

• Reassure them that help is available and stay with them until professionals arrive.

• Contact emergency services immediately.

• After the acute incident, encourage them to connect with support services like SADAG.

SADAG’s role and ethical mission

SADAG’s vision is a South Africa where mental illness is acknowledged and accessible help is available when needed.

Its mission includes:

Running 24/7 helplines (e.g., SMS 31393; WhatsApp 087 163 2030).

Facilitating over 170 free support groups, including specialised male-only spaces to encourage openness and healing.

Developing stigma-busting campaigns and community outreach to normalise help-seeking behaviour.
During June’s focus on men’s health, SADAG advocates targeted messaging underscoring that asking for help is not weakness but courage.

The bigger picture: statistics and stigma

South Africa ranks 10th globally for suicide rates, with men being five times more likely to die by suicide than women. Korb emphasised that stigma is the silent killer.

“What kills most men is the stigma that they should always be the strongest,” he said. Breaking this narrative and encouraging empathy can reduce barriers to help-seeking.

Tips for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts

• Reach out immediately to a friend, counsellor, or helpline no matter how small the risk feels.

• Remind yourself that thoughts are not facts; help is real and effective.

• Understand that vulnerability is human, not shameful.

• Keep helpline numbers where you can see them, including SADAG’s Lifeline, or your family doctor’s.

Final thoughts

The incident ending in rescue is a powerful reminder that timely, compassionate intervention makes a difference and that it is okay for anyone, particularly men, to seek help. As June shines a spotlight on men’s health, SADAG, alongside professionals like Korb, calls on families and communities to practise empathy, challenge outdated expectations, and help ensure that no one faces such thoughts alone.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact:

• 24/7 Suicide Crisis Line: 080 056 7567

• SADAG SMS Helpline: 31393

• WhatsApp: 087 163 2030

“Your life matters. Please talk,” Korb concluded.