In observation of World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is proud launches its annual campaign. This year's theme, 'Hope Starts with Talking', is a powerful reminder that open conversation is the most crucial first step towards getting help. The stigma surrounding Mental Health often prevents people from seeking help. This campaign aims to break that silence, highlighting that speaking up, whether as someone who is in distress or as a concerned loved one, is an act of strength and courage.
The need for this is critical, as SADAG operates the only 24-hour Suicide Crisis Helplines in South Africa, with a staggering 1 in 4 calls received being suicide-related. While global statistics are grim, the reality is that South Africa has about 14 000 deaths from Suicide per a year. These statistics aren't just numbers; they represent real people in distress.
Throughout this campaign, SADAG intends to share a few simple guidelines to help individuals confidently approach these vital conversations. When approaching a loved one, start by choosing a private, comfortable setting. Express your concern using 'I' statements, such as, "I've noticed you haven't seemed yourself lately, and I'm worried about you," or "I've been thinking about you, and I wanted to check in to see how you're doing." Then listen without judgment and validate their feelings. Similarly, it takes courage to ask for help, but it's the right thing to do. You can say, "I'm struggling, and I need to talk to someone," or "I'm not okay, and I need some help." Remember, there is no weakness in reaching out.
"Suicide prevention is a collective responsibility," says Zamo Mbele, SADAG Board Member and Clinical Psychologist. "A simple conversation can be the difference between life and death. Our goal with this campaign is to equip every person with the confidence to have that life-changing chat and to know that help is available."
Campaign Activities
To reach communities directly, SADAG is hosting a series of free initiatives throughout the month.
▪ Online Webinars: The campaign includes a series of free online webinars with experts throughout the month of September, covering important topics. We encourage everyone to join these sessions, which will be live-streamed on SADAG’s Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. The topics include: ‘Facing Suicidal thoughts’, ‘How to start the conversation’, ‘How to support and connect after a Suicide attempt’ and ‘Coping with loss after Suicide’
▪ Online Toolkit and Helpline:To provide immediate support and resources, SADAG has developed an online Suicide Toolkit, available on our website. In this comprehensive toolkit, you will find helpful materials, including informative brochures, videos and a step-by-step Suicide safety plan. We encourage you to visit our website and explore this essential toolkit today.
▪ Care Packs: To amplify our message and spread hope, SADAG is distributing Care Packs to universities, corporations, and communities. These packs are designed to increase awareness and provide helpful information and tools that empower individuals and organisations to prioritise mental well-being and Suicide prevention.
"This year, we're taking our message directly to communities through a series of webinars and a visible road activation," adds Fatima Seedat, SADAG Development Manager. "By bringing these conversations into public spaces, we hope to normalise talking about Suicide Prevention and Mental Health and make it clear that no one has to suffer it alone."
SADAG urges everyone to join this initiative, to talk openly, and to be a part of the solution. If you or someone you know is in need of support, do not hesitate to reach out. Call SADAG's 24-hour helpline at 0800 567 567 or 0800 456 789 or visit www.sadag.org.