As South Africa enters Teen Suicide Prevention Week from 8 - 14 February, a stark reality looms over the youth of the nation.
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) has launched a national awareness campaign titled “We Hear You, Silalele,” aimed at urging parents, teachers, caregivers, and friends to listen actively and without judgement to teenagers who may be facing mental health challenges.
Suicide among adolescents has become a grave public health issue in South Africa.
According to SADAG, alarming statistics reveal that nearly one in five high school learners has attempted suicide at least once, while approximately 24% of learners in Grades 8 to 11 report ongoing feelings of depression and hopelessness.
These conditions are recognised as significant risk factors linked to suicidal thoughts and behaviours.
Through their Suicide Helpline, the group has provided a platform for young individuals across the country to voice their experiences, many of which highlight the dire need for empathetic listening.
One teenager shared, “Every time I try to talk about how I’m feeling, I get told I’m overreacting or being dramatic. So now I just keep it to myself.”
Another said: “My parents think because I’m quiet, I’m fine. But the truth is, I just don’t feel like explaining myself anymore because they won’t really listen.”
Clinical psychologist Jody De Reuck from Cape Town reinforces the necessity of active listening in these challenging conversations. “Adults and parents need to walk alongside their children by actively listening when they reach out for help,” she emphasises.
“Children’s concerns are valid. Dismissing bullying, shame, or emotional pain by saying ‘you’ll get over it’ can cause real harm.”
Roshni Parbhoo-Seetha, SADAG’s Project Manager for Education, articulates the urgency of this issue, stating, “These statistics represent real young lives and families. Too many teens tell us they do not feel heard or taken seriously. ‘We Hear You, Silalele’ is about creating spaces where teens feel genuinely listened to, without judgement.”
SADAG also encourages adults and educators to foster intentional environments for meaningful dialogue, suggesting the removal of distractions such as phones or televisions, maintaining eye contact, and asking open-ended questions. Often, teens aren’t seeking immediate solutions; rather, they require calm and empathetic listening that allows them to feel safe enough to express themselves freely.
Changes in behaviour, including withdrawal, increased irritability, declining academic performance, and expressions of hopelessness, may signal deeper mental health issues. Early recognition of these signs is vital..
“We know that undiagnosed or untreated Depression is a leading cause of teen suicide,” says Parbhoo-Seetha. “Knowing the warning signs and encouraging teens to speak with a trusted adult, teacher, school counsellor, or family member can help save a life.”
Throughout the week, SADAG will be sharing a wealth of resources, videos, and practical tools via its website and social media platforms aimed at equipping communities with the knowledge needed to recognise warning signs and take proactive steps towards preventing teen suicide.
Saturday Star