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/ 7 April 2005

Depression is not the end of the world

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In South Africa, 9% of all teen deaths are suicides. In fact, only car accidents and homicide kill more young people between the ages of 15 and 24.

Lourens Schlebusch of the Nelson Mandela School of Medicine in Durban is a world expert on suicide. Currently, he estimates there are at least 20 to 25 suicides per day in South Africa.

“Depression, especially major depression, is a very serious and life-threatening condition and needs to be treated with great care and circumspection and a well-monitored regimen of medication and therapy,” says Schlebusch. With treatment, more than 70% of those suffering from depression can recover.

How you can help

  • A suicidal person needs to know you care. Listen to him or her. Ask questions. Help the person discuss his or her feelings.

  • Learn all you can about depression. You might be that person’s only source of information.

  • Let them know you care. Remind them that they shouldn’t feel ashamed or guilty. Let them know that their feelings are caused by an illness that can be treated.

  • Invite them out. Realise they might not want to go at first. If they say no, ask them again later, or offer to stay in and spend time with them.

  • If you are worried they might be suicidal, ask them, and help them get help. A straightforward, caring question about suicide will not cause someone to start having suicidal thoughts. If they are thinking of suicide, don’t promise secrecy. Tell someone you trust immediately.

  • Talk to the person about attending a support group meeting, if there is one. It can help them to learn that they are not alone.

  • Make sure they do not have access to things that can cause injury, like knives, guns, alcohol or drugs.

  • DO NOT take responsibility for making them well. You are not a therapist.

    If a person is in immediate danger, take the person to a hospital, emergency room or to a clinic. Take any suggestion of suicide seriously.

The South African Depression and Anxiety Group national toll-free suicide line is 0800 567 567