A tragic incident occurred when a man fell from the N2 bridge, in an alleged suicide, at the Umgeni Interchange. Image: Arrive Alive
(The Post News) – The Men’s Council South Africa (MCSA) has on Wednesday called on the government to intervene into addressing mental health issues and suicide prevention. The call comes after a tragic incident in Durban, where a 21-year-old man from Chatsworth reportedly took his own life by jumping from the M19 bridge, near the Umgeni Interchange.
The Council’s President, Fikile Dyantyi said this incident was proof that men were under a lot of pressure which civil organisations and the government need to respond to. “We are urging the government, civil society and business to create and support programmes to focus on men’s mental health, employment opportunities, mentorship and life skills, emotional development.
Dyantyi added that the incident that happened in KZN in M19 offramp of Westville, shows that there was psychological pressure. Due to the systemic neglect, true responsibility cannot be achieved without acknowledging the socio-economic neglect men face daily.
Suicide statistics in South Africa
In South Africa, up to 92% of people living with mental illness never receive treatment. For common conditions like depression, anxiety and substance use, three out of four people go without help. For severe mental illnesses, the figure is even more stark: fewer than one in ten patients receive the care they need, according to the South African Society of Psychiatrists (SASOP).
An estimated 23 suicides and 230 severe attempts occur each day in South Africa, making suicide a major public health concern. It’s critical to spread knowledge about this problem and offer assistance to people who might be experiencing suicidal thoughts. According to SASOP, suicide can be prevented and suicidal thoughts were never natural and should never be ignored. Never be afraid to reach out and assist someone you are worried about. Your intervention might save a life.
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