It is a day that raises awareness of mental health issues around the world. This year’s theme is “young people and mental health in a changing world” and puts emphasis on the importance of focusing on mental issues surrounding teenagers and young adults as they are more likely to become affected.

FACTS:

Globally

- According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), suicide is the second leading cause of death for people aged between 15 and 29

- 50% of all mental health conditions begin by the age of 14. Unfortunately, most conditions go undetected and untreated

- Depression is one of the leading causes of illness and disability among adolescents

South Africa

- According to Psychiatry Management Group (PsychMG), 20% of South African high schoolers have attempted suicide

- According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), 9% of teenage deaths are due to suicide

- Almost one in ten teenage deaths in the country are as a result of suicide (annually)

- The 2011 Youth Risk Behaviour Survey (YRBS) found that a quarter of grade 8-11 learners around the country felt too sad or hopeless to engage in their usual activities.

- More than one in six had either thought about suicide, planned on committing suicide or attempted to at least once in the past six months

PsychMG chairperson, Dr Sebolelo Seape, noted that the causes of depression and related mental illnesses experienced by teenagers and young adults are multi-faceted. “There is the stressful nature of the teenage years. There are social changes too, like changing schools, the pressure of final exams, the prospect of leaving home to start tertiary studies or a job. Problems appear too big, too difficult or embarrassing to overcome, and suicide may look like the only option,” Seape added.

Warning signs to look out for:

- Changes in eating and sleeping habits

- Loss of interest in habitual activities

- Neglect of personal appearance or hygiene

- Withdrawal from friends and family

- Alcohol and substance abuse

- Unnecessary risk-taking behaviour

- An obsession with death

- Emotional distress (e.g. anxiety)

Prevention:

Prevention is said to begin with a better understanding of symptoms of depression and other mental illnesses. Paying attention to warning signs and risk factors, building emotional resilience and taking suicide threats seriously can help to avert tragedies related to mental illness.

Seeking help:

- Friends, family, carers and neighbours are usually people you can trust, thus making it easier to confide in them.

- Organisations such as the South African Depression and Anxiety Group have helplines and other support services which they provide nationwide.

- A trained professional such as a counsellor can provide much-needed assistance as they are qualified in dealing with mental health cases.

Contact numbers:

The South African Depression and Anxiety Group

SADAG Mental Health Line: 011 234 4837

For a suicidal Emergency contact: 0800 567 567

24hr Helpline: 0800 12 13 14

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