World Suicide Prevention Day: South Africans urged to talk about mental health
As the world observes World Suicide Prevention Day on Wednesday, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) has urged people to speak up when dealing with mental health problems.
SADAG offers a toll-free 24-hour helpline that receives about 2,500 calls a day.
One in three calls to the helpline is suicide related.
To mark World Suicide Prevention Day, SADAG has launched a new campaign called 'Hope Starts with Talking’, reminding individuals that “every voice matters and every struggle is valid”.
The country has in recent years seen an increase in mental health disorders, with nearly 16% of the population experiencing depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
SADAG’s Fatima Seedat said the campaign includes various activities, including in-person talks, online webinars, and an online mental health toolkit.
“At SADAG, we are committed to being there for every person in need. We operate the only suicide crisis helpline in South Africa, and the urgency for our work is clearer than ever,” said Seedat.
“Yet, in every call we also hear a glimmer of hope, a person bravely reaching out for help. Our helpline is open 24 hours, seven days a week, every day of the year, ensuring a compassionate voice is always on the other end of the line.”
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