The silent crisis

In the last two years, the tragic loss of several male celebrities to suicide has shed light on the pressing issue of men’s mental health

according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), more than 700 000 people die due to suicide every year. Suicide is the fourth most common cause of death among young people (15 to 29 year olds) and a shocking 77% of suicides around the globe are by men.

The recent suicides of personalities such as South African rapper Riky Rick, local actors Patrick Shai, Ceagan Arendse and Yizo Yizo's Jabu Hubheka, American actor Jason David Frank and American hip-hop dancer Stephen Boss (DJ Twitch on The Ellen Show), have brought attention to the importance of recognising mental-health issues.

Because of the stigma of mental illness, many people who are contemplating taking their lives or who have made an attempt do not ask for assistance, and as a result do not receive the necessary care. Due to a lack of awareness of suicide as a serious public health issue and the stigma of discussing it openly in many communities, the prevention of suicide has not received appropriate attention.

WHO reports that only 38 nations in the world have a national suicide prevention strategy, and only a handful place suicide prevention on their list of health priorities. For nations to advance in suicide prevention, community awareness and taboo-busting are essential.

Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September serves as a catalyst for open discussions about the silent realm of depression and anxiety, unravelling the distinctions between temporary lows and more severe conditions. By understanding the signs, symptoms and preventative measures, we can actively work towards promoting mental well-being (breaking the stigma) and suicide prevention on a larger scale

HIDDEN STRUGGLES