Suicide remains a significant global public health crisis, claiming over 700,000 lives each year. The ripple effects of each loss are profound, touching not only the families and friends of the deceased but also the wider community—emotionally, socially, and economically. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights these impacts as they champion the theme for World Suicide Prevention Day 2024-2026: “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” accompanied by the call to action, “Start the Conversation.”
Start the Conversation
According to the WHO, this theme seeks to:
Raise awareness about the importance of reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicides.
Changing the narrative means challenging the silence and stigma that often surround suicide and instead fostering a culture of openness, understanding, and support. It’s about viewing suicide as a complex issue that requires empathy and dialogue, not judgment.
When you hear about suicide or suicidal thoughts, what is your immediate reaction? Do you find it easy to talk about, or does it seem taboo? Are there safe spaces where you, your friends, or your community are comfortable discussing such concerns? And perhaps most importantly, do you believe that we can collectively change the stigma around suicide?
Suicide and South Africa
In South Africa, suicide statistics are alarming. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), which manages a crisis helpline, reports an average of 23 suicides daily, with an additional 230 serious attempts. The Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference has also noted that factors such as conflict, disaster, violence, abuse, loss, and isolation are strongly linked to suicidal behavior.
Read: It’s Ok to not be Ok
It’s crucial to remember that reaching out for help is not only okay—it’s encouraged. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, there are support systems in place. In South Africa, 24-hour helplines include:
- SADAG – 0800 567 567
- National Department of Health: National Helpline – 0800 012 322
- I Am Youth for Free Youth Counselling – 076 037 6345 (WhatsApp, SMS, or Call)
By starting conversations and creating safe spaces for open dialogue, we can help change the narrative and work towards a future where fewer lives are lost to suicide.
Written by Kabelo Milton.
The views expressed herein are those of the writer and not I Am Youth.
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