Amanzimtoti bridge jumper announced suicide threat
Since July is Mental Health Month, Dr Sihle Shabalala of the KZN Department of Health said depression can contribute to mental illness, which could lead to suicidal thoughts.
THE man who was rescued by members of the public after he jumped from the Adams Road bridge in Amanzimtoti on July 15 had allegedly told staff at a nearby security training centre 30 minutes earlier that he wanted to kill himself.
Also read: Breaking: Jumper rescued from Adams Road bridge
The man’s name is known to the SUN but will not be disclosed to protect his identity. According to an employee at the training centre, which is not far from the bridge, he was a student there in 2024, studying to be a security officer.
The employee, who is not authorised to talk to the media, said the man was yelling suicide threats and seemed to be emotionally unwell. He then left for the bridge, where he was saved by Wesley Gander and other members of the public.
After getting hold of him in the nick of time, he dangled until a truck was stopped under the bridge, and he fell on its trailer after he was let go.
The man’s mother, whom he had called earlier, arrived at the scene, and she arranged for him to be taken to hospital. The mother also confirmed that her son is mentally unstable.
Since July is Mental Health Month, Dr Sihle Shabalala of the KZN Department of Health said depression can contribute to mental illness, which could lead to suicidal thoughts. He said other common types include anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia.
“The good news is that mental illness is treatable. With the right support, therapy, medication, or both, recovery is possible. Many people live full, healthy lives while managing their condition,” said Shabalala.
Public clinics and hospitals offer assistance in managing mental disorders.
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