It’s Teen Suicide Prevention Week. Nine percent of all teen deaths in South Africa are due to suicide.
The week, Monday February 11 to Monday February 18, is meant to highlight teenage suicide in South Africa. SADAG will be visiting 10 high schools to focus on teen suicide prevention.
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) runs the National Toll Free Suicide Crisis Helpline which takes a huge number of calls from teens, who are calling for themselves or on behalf of a friend.Â
Throughout Teen Suicide Prevention Week SADAG will be raising awareness through school talks, online content, Facebook Friday online chats and so much more.
The awareness campaign does not only encourage teens to come forward, but also tells them where to go for help in their own community and how to contact the Suicide Call Center.
Teen Suicide Prevention Toolkit
â–ª Identify the warning signs of teen suicide and get guidance on how to help a loved one or friend.
â–ª To learn more about how to help a friend or family member.Â
â–ª Wondering what is feels like to be Suicidal? Learn more.
â–ª Do you have to have a mental illness to be suicidal? The brochures have all the information.
â–ª Looking for help? Worried about a friend, family member or loved one? Contact SADAG on 0800 21 22 33, 7 days a week, 8am – 8pm.
Facebook Friday
Join the free online #FacebookFriday ‘Ask the Dr’ on Friday February 15. They will be discussing students and mental health. Just started a new semester? Struggling manage stress? Have a mental illness and trying to cope on campus? Join the chat 1pm – 2pm with Clinical Psychologist Suntosh Pillay, and again at 7pm – 8pm with Clinical Psychologist, Dr Charity Mkone.Â
To join the chats, like SADAG’s Facebook Page: The South African Depression and Anxiety Group or go to www.sadag.org. Facebook users that would like to remain anonymous can send a email to media@anxiety.org.za and SADAG will ask on their behalf.
