Youth and suicide risk

Watching a young person struggle is frightening for any parent, teacher, or caregiver. Understanding the risks and how to respond can help you act with confidence rather than fear.

What it is

Adolescence and young adulthood is a period of intense change - physically, emotionally, and socially. For some young people, this period brings overwhelming stress, identity struggles, bullying, or mental health difficulties that can lead to thoughts of suicide. This isn't a sign of weakness or attention-seeking. It's often a sign of pain that has become too big to manage alone, and it responds well to timely, caring support.

Signs to notice

• Talking about death, dying, or feeling like a burden to others.
• Sudden withdrawal from friends, family, or activities they used to enjoy.
• Big changes in sleep, appetite, or school performance.
• Increased irritability, risk-taking, or substance use.
• Giving away belongings or saying goodbye in unusual ways.
• Self-harm, or unexplained injuries they try to hide.
• Expressions of hopelessness about the future.

What helps

• Take every mention of suicide seriously, even if said casually or "as a joke".
• Ask directly and calmly: "Are you having thoughts of suicide?" This shows you care and won't make things worse.
• Keep communication open - listen more than you speak, and avoid lecturing or minimising their feelings.
• Remove access to means of self-harm where possible, such as medication or weapons, during a difficult period.
• Involve a school counsellor, GP, or mental health professional early rather than waiting for things to escalate.
• Encourage healthy routines: sleep, movement, and time with supportive people, without pressuring them to "just snap out of it".
• Stay connected even after a crisis passes - ongoing support matters more than a single conversation.

When to reach out for help

Seek professional help immediately if a young person expresses a plan or intent to harm themselves, has attempted self-harm before, or shows a sudden, unexplained calm after a period of deep distress, which can sometimes signal a decision has been made. Don't wait - involve a trusted adult, doctor, or crisis line straight away.

Getting help in South Africa

SADAG runs a dedicated line that supports young people and their families, alongside the main crisis line. Cleared Mind's EAP counsellors can also support parents and caregivers navigating this, and many schools have counsellors who can be brought in early. You don't have to carry this alone.

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If you or someone else is in immediate danger, reach out now. SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline (24h): 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393. SAPS 10111, ambulance 10177, GBV Command Centre 0800 428 428.