World Suicide Prevention Day, an annual awareness day marked on 10 September, highlights the importance of ongoing awareness and public education to help reduce suicide rates and reach those who need professional support in time.
Five steps to help a person at risk:
- Be direct in asking whether they are thinking about suicide or have plans to harm themselves.
- Listening without judgment is key. You do not need to give advice; just listen.
- Help them keep safe. Do not leave the person alone. Where possible, reduce access to any harmful items.
- Connect with professional help. There are many resources and suicide helplines to contact, such as the Netcare Akeso 24-hour line on 0861-435-787 and the South African Anxiety and Depression Group 24-hour suicide crisis line on 0800-567-567. Help guide the person to a safe place for support and, if possible, help them reach out to these resources.
- Stay in touch with the person after the crisis or after they have contacted a professional. Ongoing support is vital to one’s mental wellbeing.
