SEPTEMBER 10 marks World Suicide Prevention Day and the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) is calling on people to break the stigma around suicide and mental health by asking the potentially life-saving question of “are you okay?”

Also read: Teens have the highest suicide risk

The theme for this year, “Every Conversation Counts,” focuses on the importance of being prepared to talk about suicide and supporting those who may be struggling.

“Sometimes, the hardest words to say are the ones that matter most: “Are you okay?” For someone struggling with thoughts of suicide, feeling seen, heard and supported can be the first step towards getting help. Yet fear, stigma and uncertainty often stop us from having these conversations,” said the organisation in a statement.

The organisation said that one in four calls they receive are suicide related. “Every number represents a person, a family, a friend and a community affected by suicide,” said the organisation. 

You are not giving them ideas, you are creating a space

Sadag hopes that this year’s theme will allow South Africans to be more open around the conversation of suicide. 

“Asking about suicide does not put the idea into someone’s head. In fact, asking directly can give someone the chance to talk about what they are going through and get the help they need. A conversation does not have to be perfect. It can start with something as simple as, “I’ve noticed you haven’t been yourself lately. How are you doing?” or “I’m worried about you. Are you okay?” read the statement.

If said person does admit they are not okay, Sadag suggests letting the person speak and try not to quickly solve their problems.

Also read: Mental health during loss

The organisation said it’s imperative that people should avoid judgement, quick solutions or telling someone that things will simply “get better”.

The organisation said if there is room for concern, you can ask them directly if they are thinking about suicide. If possible, people should stay with someone who is at immediate risk and help connect them with a mental health professional, trusted person or crisis service.

Helping out is for everyone

Cassey Chambers, Operations Director at Sadag, said suicide prevention is something that everyone can play apart in. 

“You don’t need to have all the answers or be a mental health expert. Sometimes, simply noticing that someone is struggling, asking how they are and listening without judgement can make all the difference. By creating spaces where people feel safe to speak openly, we can help ensure that no one feels they have to face their darkest moments alone,” said Chambers. 

Online conversations

To commemorate World Suicide Prevention Day, Sadag will be hosting free online live conversations on September 10 and 11, focusing on different groups and experiences:

• September 10: What to Do When Feeling Stressed at 18:00 on TikTok, @SADAG_Official.
• September 10: The Grief No One Talks About: Coping with Suicide Loss –at 18:30pm via Zoom and Facebook, @TheSADAG.
• September 11: When Someone Feels Like a Burden: How to Recognise the Signs and Start the Conversation at 13:00 via Facebook, @TheSADAG.

Getting support 

For more information on how you can help someone else visit www.sadag.org. 

If you are someone who is struggling with thoughts of suicide, contact the following 24—hour toll-free emergency helplines:

• Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0800 567 567
• Department of Social Development Substance Abuse Helpline: 0800 12 13 14 or SMS 32312
• Cipla Mental Health Helpline: 0800 456 789 or SMS 31393
• NPOwer SA Helpline: 0800 515 515  or SMS 43010
• Healthcare Workers Care Network Helpline: 0800 21 21 21 or SMS 43001
• UFS #Fair Kitchens Chefs Helpline: 0800 006 333

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