SADAG's essential guidelines for responsible suicide reporting in the media
Teen suicide is a heartbreaking reality that continues to impact families, communities, and schools across South Africa.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), suicide remains a leading cause of death globally, and the statistics in South Africa are equally alarming.
During a press webinar hosted by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) to kick off Teen Suicide Prevention Week 2025, a sobering statistic was revealed: between April and December 2024, over 7,426 children and teens under the age of 18 were treated for suicide attempts across the country.
These numbers are not just statistics they represent real lives, real families, and real suffering.
Teen Suicide Prevention Week is an opportunity to reflect, learn, and take collective action to address this crisis.
The role of language in suicide prevention
One of the key takeaways from the SADAG webinar was the importance of how we talk about suicide. Language shapes perception, and in the case of suicide, it can either perpetuate stigma or promote understanding and compassion.
For decades, phrases like "committed suicide" have been used, but these words carry connotations of criminality or moral failure.
As Zamo Mbele registered clinical psychologist and clinical consultant, a mental health professional who spoke during the webinar, pointed out: "We must avoid words like ‘committed suicide’ and instead use terms like ‘died by suicide’ or ‘lost their life to suicide.’ These phrases humanise the issue and remove judgment."
This shift in language is not just about semantics it is about creating a culture of empathy.
When we use compassionate and factual language, we acknowledge the deep emotional pain that drives someone to consider suicide without labelling them as "failures."
Why South Africa is particularly vulnerable
South African teens face unique challenges that contribute to the rising rates of mental health issues and suicide.
High levels of poverty, inequality, and violence create a stressful environment for young people.
The pressure to succeed academically, combined with limited access to mental health resources, exacerbates the situation. For many teens, the weight of these stressors becomes unbearable.
According to SADAG, suicide is often the result of untreated mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, both of which are on the rise among South African youth.
Yet, mental health remains a taboo topic in many communities, with stigma preventing families from seeking help. This stigma extends to schools and workplaces, where mental health is often overlooked or misunderstood.
The media’s responsibility
The media plays a critical role in shaping public attitudes toward suicide and mental health. Sensationalised or graphic reporting can do more harm than good, as it may lead to copycat behaviour or further stigmatisation.
Instead, the media should focus on providing resources, sharing stories of hope and recovery, and normalising conversations about mental health.
SADAG emphasises that responsible reporting includes:
1. Avoiding graphic details about how a suicide occurred.
2. Focusing on the individual’s life, rather than their death.
3. Always include mental health resources and crisis helplines in articles and broadcasts.
By adopting these practices, journalists can contribute to suicide prevention efforts and help save lives.
How educators and caregivers can help
Parents, teachers, and caregivers are often the first line of defence when it comes to recognising the signs of suicidal thoughts in teens.
However, many adults feel ill-equipped to handle such situations. During the webinar, SADAG emphasised the need for compassion and empathy when supporting young people in distress.
Some key strategies include:
- Active listening: Create a safe space where teens feel comfortable sharing their feelings without fear of judgment.
- Recognising the signs: Changes in behaviour, withdrawal from loved ones, loss of interest in activities, and expressions of hopelessness are potential warning signs.
- Encouraging professional help: If you notice signs of distress, gently encourage the teen to seek help from a counsellor, psychologist, or doctor.
- Sharing resources: Ensure that teens know where to find help, such as SADAG’s 24-hour helpline (0800 567 567) or suicide crisis line (0800 12 13 14).
Building a culture of prevention
Teen suicide is preventable, but it requires a collective effort from families, schools, healthcare providers, and policymakers. Mental health education should be a priority in schools, equipping young people with the tools to manage stress and seek help.
Additionally, public health campaigns must work to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage open conversations.
Communities can also play a role by organising support groups, workshops, and outreach programs to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention.
While the statistics are sobering, it is important to remember that suicide is preventable.
Every conversation, every act of kindness, and every effort to reduce stigma can make a difference. As SADAG reminds us, "Even small steps can save lives."
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. SADAG’s helpline (0800 567 567) is available 24/7, and their website offers resources and support for teens, parents, and educators.
Teen Suicide Prevention Week is not just a date on the calendar it is a reminder of the urgent need to address the mental health crisis facing South Africa’s youth.
Let us work together to ensure that no young person feels alone in their struggle.
Resources for help:
- SADAG Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 12 13 14.
- SADAG 24-Hour Helpline: 0800 567 567.
- Lifeline South Africa: 0861 322 322.
- Childline South Africa: 0800 055 555.