SADAG helps prevent teen suicide
Publicity 12
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) runs the only toll-free suicide crisis line in the country (0800 567 567) and the only teen suicide prevention programme in schools. The 'Suicide Shouldn’t be a Secret' programme, now 11 years old, is aimed at educating teens and teachers about the warning signs, facts and interventions of teen suicide.
The programme has been implemented in schools across the country in rural, peri-urban and urban schools.
Teen suicide is a reality for many families. 9.5% of all teen deaths in South Africa are due to suicide and suicide is the fastest growing, and second leading cause of death in the 15 to 24 age group. The National Youth Risk Survey found an alarming number of high school teens were depressed and suicidal – over 20% had considered suicide in the last month. But despite its prevalence, teen suicide is still shrouded in myth and misconception.
Through presenting to teens, teachers, parents and police about the trauma of suicide, we are able to prevent the loss of lives. Children as young as seven-years-old commit suicide in South Africa. “My friend used to always tell me she wanted to die, and that she was going to kill herself. I never took her seriously until she hung herself,” says 14-year-old Naomi.
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