World Suicide Prevention Day [WSPD] takes place on 10 September annually.
Suicide is a global issue that affects individuals from all countries and contexts and is the third leading cause of death among 15-29 year olds. Globally, suicide accounts for more than one in every 100 deaths and for each death, there are 20 suicide attempts.
According to the South African Anxiety and Depression Group [SADAG], who operate the country’s suicide hotlines, 1 in every 4 calls they receive is suicide-related. In South Africa, it is estimated that every day, 23 people lose their lives to suicide, the third-highest suicide rate out of all African countries.
The WSPD theme for the next three years, as set by the International Association for Suicide Prevention [IASP], is Changing the Narrative. The aim is to inspire individuals, communities, organisations, and governments to engage in open and honest discussions about suicide and suicidal behaviour. The hope is that by initiating these vital conversations, we can break down barriers, raise awareness, and create better cultures of understanding and support.
To commemorate WSPD this year, the SA Federation for Mental Health is excited to share a positive and inspiring message from a young social artist who is passionate about spreading hope. Javi ‘Jambo Namphula’ Rodriquez, from Spain, filmed his latest project in Cape Town. Read what inspired Javi’s music video below:
I wrote this song because I got tired of meeting amazing young people who told me they had tried to die by suicide. Friends, talented individuals with a lot of personality and potential, are trying to end their lives. Because they didn’t fit in society, they felt pressure, stress, anxiety, or they were lost in life. I heard similar stories in Spain and South Africa, which made me realise, firstly, that suicide is a global problem. And secondly, that it is an issue that somehow seems not to exist, but which is clearly there.
I made this project for those who need to hear this message. Whether you’re considering suicide or feeling anxious. You are worth it, it’s ok to be yourself, and you only need to believe in yourself and not let others bring you down. Express yourself. The song was recorded with great musicians from Cape Town, including Nobuhle Ashanti and Shaw Komori, as part of the band.
The music video was filmed in Cape Town, and it’s a collaboration with Shaylex Community Projects – an organisation based in Bonteheuwel whose mission is to uplift underprivileged children through education. They also have initiatives focused on providing food to children in the community. We collaborated because children are the masters of expression. When we are kids, we don’t think too much. We are who we are, and that’s it. So, it was perfect to have the children of Bonteheuwel on this project. People can check out Shaylex Community Projects and the work they do here.
Hope you feel this project. Let’s spread the message…Express yourself!
You can watch the music video below. PLEASE NOTE: The video deals with potentially triggering subject matter, so please approach with caution.
Remember, help is available. For those who are suicidal and need help or are unsure how to help someone in need, contact:
- The National Suicide Crisis Line on 0800 567 567. This number is free, operates 24 hours, and offers counselling in all 11 official languages.
Additional FREE hotlines for support with your mental health include:
- Dr Reddy’s Mental Health Helpline on 0800 21 22 23. This number is free and operates 8 AM – 8 PM every day.
- Cipla Mental Health Hotline on 0800 456 789. This number is free and operates 24 hours.
- The Adcock Ingram Depression and Anxiety Helpline on 0800 70 80 90. This number is free, operates 24 hours and offers counselling in all 11 official languages.
- The Substance Abuse Helpline on 0800 12 13 14. This number is free, operates 24 hours, and offers counselling in all 11 official languages.
For enquiries, please contact:
Michel’le Donnelly – Project Leader: Advocacy & Awareness
CELL: +27 (0)79 799 6533
EMAIL: michel’le@safmh.org
