The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that more than 720 000 people die due to suicide every year, and that suicide is the third leading cause of death among 15–29-year-olds. According to the South Africa Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), in South Africa there are 23 suicides and 230 serious attempts recorded daily.

This year, as an organisation, SCOUTS South Africa has chosen to focus on Mental Health and Well-Being as our National Challenge. Today, on World Suicide Prevention Day, we want to reach out to our members who are struggling and remind them that they are not alone.

You are part of our Scouting family and we encourage you to either speak to an adult you trust or to call SADAG’s 24 hour toll free Suicide Crisis Helpline 0800 567 567 and reach out. 

Be prepared to help …

It is important that as Scouters, Scouts, friends, siblings, parents and care givers we keep our eyes open for possible warning signs – red flags – and once spotted, talk to an adult or professional we trust in order to make sure our members gets the help they need. Especially our teen members, who according to WHO are most at risk.

It’s normal for teenagers to feel sad, angry or moody. Setbacks such as getting cut from a sports team, doing poorly on a test, being grounded by a parent or having problems with a friend or classmate can bring on lots of emotions.

It’s also normal to feel overwhelmed and desperate sometimes and just want to escape from a situation that seems impossible to deal with or to get out of. Other times we can get really angry or be very ashamed and just want to hide. But when the depressed mood stays for weeks or even months and affects their ability to function normally, it might be depression.

In order to help you Be Prepared we have summarised some information and listed some contacts here: Member Support – Suicide Prevention Support

Let’s be there for each other in times of need, and remind our young people that they are not alone!

Related article: “How Scouting saved my life”