Suicide is the act of self inflicted injury with lethal intent.

It is an often misunderstood behavior shrouded in shame, taboo and stigma. A lot of people across cultures and age groups struggle to talk about suicide because it is percieved as a sign of weakness or associated with mental illness which in itself is often stigmatised.

Despite this suicide is alarmingly common and was listed as the fourth leading cause of death among 15-29 years olds globally by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2019.

Suicide is not a “rich man’s phenonmenon” and according to WHO, more than 70% of all global suicides occured in middle and low inome countries in 2019.

What to do if a loved one has suicidal thoughts:

1. Talk openly about suicide or thoughts of death
2. Avoid keeping “secrets” about their feelings
3. Encourage them to seek help
4. Assist them in accessing help OR seek help on their behalf
5. Avoid criticising their thoughts or behavior.
6. Avoid minimising OR dismissing their thoughts/behavior irrespective of your inability to relate to the individuals feelings
7. Avoid religious or social judgement

The national suicide hotline in South Africa is 0800 567 567. This is the South African Depression and Anxiety group Suicide hotline which is manned by professionals skilled at providing help and advice.

Please inform any health care provider treating the individual/loved one of any suicidal thoughts or behavior that you may be aware of so as to ensure that the correct treatment is achieved.