Hey fam.
September is Suicide Prevention Month, and maybe you’re thinking, “Another heavy topic? Can’t we just vibe?”
But we need to talk—because sometimes the person laughing beside us is carrying something we cannot see.
This isn’t written for therapists. It’s for the friend, sibling, teammate or youth-group member who notices someone isn’t okay and wonders, What do I say?
Sometimes saving a life begins with four uncomfortable words: “Are you really okay?”
Sometimes Christians are quick to say, “Just pray about it.”
Yes, pray. Absolutely.
But prayer and getting help are not enemies.
Galatians 6:2 tells us, “Carry each other’s burdens.” Sometimes carrying a burden means sitting beside someone in their darkest moment and helping them reach professional support.
Depression isn’t proof that somebody lacks faith. And asking for help isn’t spiritual failure.
If someone has withdrawn, seems hopeless, talks about being a burden or simply isn’t themselves, don’t ignore it.
Find a private moment and ask:
“You haven’t seemed like yourself lately. Are you okay?”
And if you’re worried about suicide, ask clearly:
“Are you thinking about suicide?”
Then listen.
Don’t preach. Don’t panic. Don’t rush in with, “But you’ve got so much to live for!”
Try: “Thank you for telling me. I’m here. We’re going to get some help.”
Proverbs 18:13 reminds us to listen before answering. Sometimes presence speaks louder than advice.
If someone tells you they’re considering suicide, take them seriously. Don’t promise to keep it secret.
Connect them with a parent, trusted adult, counsellor, pastor, clinic or mental-health professional. If they’re in immediate danger, stay with them and get emergency help immediately.
In South Africa, call 112 for an emergency, 10111 for police or 10177 for an ambulance.
Save these current SADAG contacts:
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0800 567 567 — 24/7
Cipla Mental Health Helpline: 0800 456 789 — 24/7
Cipla WhatsApp: 076 882 2775 — 8am–5pm
SADAG: 011 234 4837 — 8am–8pm
SMS: 31393 — 24/7
Maybe you’re not reading this because you’re worried about a friend.
Maybe you’re the one struggling.
Please tell someone today.
Your story does not have to end in the chapter you’re currently living. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.”
You don’t have to pretend you’re okay for God to come close.
Stay. Speak. Let somebody walk with you.
Written by Kabelo Milton.
The views expressed herein are those of the writer and not I Am Youth.
If you need to talk to someone, reach out to our 24-hour free Youth counselling service on 076 037 6345 (WhatsApp, SMS, or Call).
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