Teen suicide remains a growing concern as SADAG launches campaign
As Teen Suicide Prevention Week is observed from February 8 to 14, SADAG is urging adults to listen without judgement and create safe spaces for vulnerable teens to speak out.
As South Africa marks Teen Suicide Prevention Week from February 8 to 14, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) has launched its national campaign, We Hear You – Silalele.
The campaign urges parents, teachers, caregivers and peers to listen without judgement, create safe spaces for conversation and support teenagers who may be at risk.
Teen suicide a growing concern
Teen suicide remains a serious and growing public health concern in South Africa. Research indicates that nearly one in five high school learners have attempted suicide at least once, while about 24% of learners in Grades 8 to 11 report prolonged feelings of depression and hopelessness – key risk factors linked to suicidal thoughts and behaviour.
“These statistics represent real young lives and families,” said Roshni Parbhoo-Seetha, SADAG’s project manager for education.
“Too many teens tell us they do not feel heard or taken seriously. We Hear You – Silalele is about creating spaces where teens feel genuinely listened to, without judgement.”
Voices from teens
Teenagers from across the country who have contacted SADAG’s Suicide Helpline shared that they often feel dismissed, misunderstood or judged when trying to open up, with some saying it is easier to speak to a stranger than someone at home.
The importance of listening without judgement
Cape Town clinical psychologist Jody de Reuck emphasised the importance of listening without judgement.
“Adults need to walk alongside their children by actively listening when they reach out for help. Dismissing bullying, shame or emotional pain by saying ‘you’ll get over it’ can cause real harm,” she said.
Recognising warning signs
SADAG encourages adults and educators to remove distractions, maintain eye contact and ask open-ended questions when speaking to teens. Changes in behaviour such as withdrawal, irritability, declining school performance or expressions of hopelessness may signal depression or suicidal thoughts.
Getting help and resources
During Teen Suicide Prevention Week, SADAG will share resources, videos and practical tools via its website and social media platforms. A Facebook Live discussion titled The Lack of Social Connection: Difficulty of Being a Teen will take place on February 13 at 13:00, led by educational psychologist Rivendri Govender.
Support is available 24 hours a day through the SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline on 0800 567 567 or by SMSing 31393 for a call-back.
“Teen suicide is preventable,” Parbhoo-Seetha said. “But it requires our commitment to listening without judgement and truly hearing our youth. Silalele. We hear you.”
