Uniting against teen suicide this Teen Suicide Prevention Week

Teen Suicide Prevention Week, observed annually during the second week of February, is a crucial event on the mental health calendar dedicated to raising awareness and educating communities about the pressing issue of suicide among youth.

According to Roshni Parbhoo Seetha, project manager-education at the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag), this week serves as a vital reminder of the importance of open conversations about mental health and suicide prevention.

Read more: Men are four times more likely to die by suicide than women

The role of Sadag in supporting teens

Sadag offers a variety of programmes aimed at helping teens navigate their mental health challenges.

Key initiatives include:

• 24/7 helpline: This free and confidential service allows teens to connect with trained counsellors who are available around the clock.
• School outreach programmes: The ‘Suicide Shouldn’t be Secret’ initiative includes workshops and talks at schools to educate students about mental health, coping mechanisms, and suicide prevention.
• Support groups: These groups provide a safe space for teens to share their experiences and receive support from peers.
• Online resources and webinars: Sadag offers self-help tips and expert discussions on managing mental health through various online platforms.

Sadag’s helpline receives up to 2 500 calls per day, many concerning issues related to depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, also highlighting the need for community awareness and education to combat the stigma surrounding mental health.

Debunking misconceptions about suicide

There are several prevalent misconceptions about teen suicide that need to be addressed:

• Attention-seeking behaviour: Many teens struggle in silence and often express their pain only when they reach a breaking point.
• Talking about suicide: Contrary to the belief that discussing suicide will encourage it, open conversation is essential. It serves as a warning sign and should never be ignored.
• Mental illness is a requirement: While mental health conditions can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, external factors, such as bullying and trauma, can also play significant roles.

• Fear of discussing suicide: Many parents and educators worry that talking about suicide will worsen the situation. Research indicates that discussing these feelings can provide support and understanding.
• Toughen up mentality: Mental health struggles are real and require understanding and support rather than dismissal.

Also read: The elderly are at risk for severe depression and suicide

The importance of open conversations

Teen suicide is a preventable tragedy, and stigma often hinders those in need from reaching out. Encouraging open discussion can validate teens’ feelings, reassure them that they are not alone, and highlight the support available to them.

As Zamo Mbele, Sadag’s board vice chairperson and clinical psychologist, notes: “There is still a lot of stigma and fear around suicide. Many parents and teachers are afraid that if they talk about suicide to teens, it could cause them to take their life.”

Mbele further emphasises that research shows that discussing suicide with young people does not lead to increased suicidal thoughts or desires. Instead, the danger lies in not addressing these topics, which can result in thoughts turning into actions.

Elizna Botha, the school counsellor at Hoërskool Linden, emphasises that this week is a vital opportunity to raise awareness about the pressing issue of youth suicide, which is often preventable if identified early.
Teen Suicide Prevention Week serves as a platform to focus attention on mental health. By promoting open conversations and raising awareness, it helps to break the stigma surrounding mental health struggles.

Botha encourages teens to seek help when needed as it provides parents, teachers, and communities with tools to recognise warning signs. “Hoërskool Linden is committed to supporting and promoting the mental health of its students through various initiatives. We offer onsite counselling services available to all learners during and after school hours. This accessibility ensures that students have a safe space to discuss their concerns.”

She outlined that their peer mentoring groups allows matric students to mentor younger learners, providing emotional support and guidance. This initiative helps students connect with peers who have faced similar challenges, fostering a supportive environment. “We also conduct programmes that focus on mental health topics, coping strategies, and emotional well-being.”

There are numerous resources available for parents to utilise in supporting their teens:

• School counsellors and psychologists: Many schools, including Hoërskool Linden, provide professional counselling services. Parents can reach out to their school’s counsellor for support.
• Therapists and mental health clinics: Private practitioners and mental health clinics offer one-on-one counselling services.
• Psychiatric hospitals and clinic facilities: Facilities such as: Netcare Krugersdorp Hospital, Life Poortview, Akeso, and Netcare Milpark Hospital, provide psychiatric care.

Parents can support their teens by:

• Encouraging open communication. Creating a safe space for their child to open up about their feelings.
• Be observant. Recognise behavioural changes, and recognise signs of distress.
• Reduce the stigma. Normalise the conversation about mental health, seek professional help, encourage therapy, and encourage counselling and support groups.
• Promote healthy coping mechanisms. Encourage physical activity, engaging in hobbies they enjoy, and also positive social interactions.

Teens face multiple pressures that contribute to suicidal thoughts and these include:

• Academic stress – High expectations, exam pressure.
• Bullying and peer pressure – This can be cyberbullying, or face-to-face.
• Family conflict – Divorce, neglect, or abuse.
• Mental health disorders – Depression and anxiety.
• Trauma and grief – Loss of a family member or loved one.
• Low self-esteem and social isolation.
• Substance abuse and using it as a coping mechanism.

The warning signs for suicide in teenagers include:

• Withdrawal from family and friends.
• Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed.
• Changes in sleeping and eating patterns.
• Expressing feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness.
• Increase in reckless behaviour such as reckless driving or substance abuse.
• Sudden mood swings.

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Related article: Help stop teen suicide!