SADAG
Do you know someone who may be Suicidal.
You can do something to help.
Looking out for a friend or loved one is an important part of preventing suicides.
In South Africa there are 23 suicides a day recorded and 230 serious attempts.
You can call SADAG to talk on behalf of a loved one, colleague, or friend.
Trained counsellors are there to help and refer you to local counsellors, facilities and
Support Groups.
0800 21 22 23 (8am to 8pm)
0800 12 13 14 (8pm to 8am)
Or SMS 31393.
What is happening in this persons life?
Have they experienced any life changes recently?
• Recent loss (of a loved one, a job, an income/ livelihood, a relationship, a pet)
• Major disappointment (failed exams, missed job promotions)
• Change in circumstances (separation/ divorce, retirement, redundancy, children leaving home)
• Mental disorder or physical illness/ injury
• Suicide of a family member, friend or a public figure
• Financial and/ or legal problems.
• Traumatic experience, Fire, Rape, Accident.
How To Be Helpful to Someone Who Is Threatening Suicide
• Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide.
• Be willing to listen. Allow expressions of feelings. Accept the feelings.
• Be non-judgmental. Don't debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or whether feelings are good or bad. Don't lecture on the value of life.
• Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support.
• Don't dare him or her to do it.
• Don't act shocked. This will put distance between you.
• Don't be sworn to secrecy. Seek support.
• Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer glib reassurance.
• Ask if you may contact a family member
• Take action. Remove means, such as guns or stockpiled pills.
• Don’t leave them alone, get help from persons specializing in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.
• If necessary get in touch with the police
Be Aware of Feelings
Many people at some time in their lives think about suicide. Most decide to live because they eventually come to realize that the crisis is
temporary and death is permanent. On the other hand, people having a crisis sometimes perceive their dilemma as inescapable and feel an utter loss of control.
These are some of the feelings and thoughts they experience:
• Can't stop the pain
• Can't think clearly
• Can't make decisions
• Can't see any way out
• Can't sleep, eat or work
• Can't get out of depression
• Can't make the sadness go away
• Can't see a future without pain
• Can't see themselves as worthwhile
• Can't get someone's attention
• Can't seem to get control
• Feel hopeless and helpless
If you experience these feelings, get help!
If someone you know exhibits these symptoms, offer help!
