In South Africa there are 23 suicides as well as 230 serious attempts recorded every day.
Many people have at some stage thought about suicide. Having commemorated World Suicide Prevention Day in September, Brett van der Schyff, psychologist at Wesfleur Hospital, is passionate about raising awareness all year round.
“Most people can cope with the temporary distress, but death is permanent,” he said. “Unfortunately some people feel they have no control and see their crisis as inescapable.”
Suicidal thoughts can often be in response to sudden life events such as a recent loss or a significant disappointment.
It can also include major changes in circumstances such as divorce or perhaps even the suicide of someone significant. Traumatic experiences and financial difficulties may also play a large role.
Concerning feelings and thoughts may include intense sadness, poor sleep, poor eating or work habits, lack of optimism about the future, lack of worth, lack of control, hopelessness or helplessness, isolation from others and of course, talking about suicide.
Van der Schyff said: “It is important that we work together to support where we can and take action if we notice any warning signs.”
The following guidelines can assist in showing support to those in distress:. Be direct. Talk openly about suicide.. Be willing to listen, without needing to respond immediately. . Allow expressions of feelings. Accept the feelings.. Be non-judgmental. Don’t debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or whether feelings are good or bad. Don’t lecture on the value of life.. Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support.. Ask if you may contact a family member.. Inform the person that you will help seek support.. Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer superficial reassurance.. Remove possible means, such as weapons or medication.
At times, it may be necessary to get help from professionals specialising in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.
These may include visiting one’s nearest primary health-care facility or clinic for support. A full range of in- and outpatient mental health services are available in both the metro and rural areas of the province, and people will be referred to their nearest appropriate facility for further evaluation and treatment, as necessary. So health professionals will walk this road with those in need of intervention.
Importantly, people must first be screened to ensure they do not have an untreated medical illness that may resemble psychiatric symptoms but are not.
From there they will then be referred to a service that best suits their needs; not all mental-health symptoms need intervention from a medical doctor or psychiatrist, as a social worker, counsellor or psychologist may be the most appropriate person to see. . Contacting the SADAG helpline
0800 21 22 23 (8am to 8pm)
0800 12 13 14 (8pm to 8am)
or SMS 31393.. SADAG – Toll-free number – 0800 567 567. Lifeline Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0800 121 314/0861 322 322. Adcock Ingram Helpline – 0800 708 090. Akeso Psychiatric Response – 0861 435 787. Childline – 0800 055 555 or 116. Dr Reddy’s Helpline – 0800 212 223
If people are concerned about a friend or loved one reach out to them, and offer them support, as this is an important part of preventing suicides. Everyone has to play a part in building mental health support in our communities.
