LISTEN: Importance of mental health awareness for healthier work and school environments
We spoke to KZN medical doctor in the public service, Dr Nhlakanipho Mkhize as share alarming rate at which suicides in South Africa sees an increase.
Whilst COVID-19 continues to claim the lives of our loved ones, our employment therefore our possessions and security; our mental health is negatively affected and we find ourselves feeling pessimistic and de-motivated. It has along with other factors contributed to the increased suicide numbers in South Africa at the moment.
We had a conversation with a public service medical doctor in his personal capacity, Dr Nhlakanipho Mkhize regarding this important and alarming matter.
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Suicide is unfortunately one of those uncomfortable topics that people either avoid because they are ashamed they have some kind of relation with or a topic people just do not have a proper informed understanding of because of the stigmas around it.
He highlights statistics in South Africa, including 154 deaths per week by suicide and that there is an alarming number of suicide by university students.
In this podcast below he also highlights the key contributing factors of depression:
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In addition, Dr Mkhize shares that the work and education environments in which one find him/herself should be clear of toxicity and triggers as this is also a key factor in our mental health. We witnessed the suicide of a young student in Limpopo following cyber-bullying earlier this year. He believes that should it have been a safe space to share with the teachers by the victim that she was bullied often, it might have a different effect on the way she responded to the bullying and feelings of shame.
667 deaths by suicide every month, 154 per week, 22 bed day, 1 every hour
The importance of a safe work or school environment where one can speak up if there is anything oppressive happening is important in ensuring the mental health of young students and adults at large.
This can obviously not be successful without the help of campaigns that aid employers and teachers and families of the depression red flags. Ensuring that there is knowledge and awareness of mental health issues in your organization places every in some sort of alert level in terms the courteous nature and culture you'll cultivate in whichever environment. We might be at work or at school or at home and not feeling like staying alive but if one person catches that you are not working as proficiently or answering questions in class as enthusiastically or dreading to eat you favourite home cooked meal by your wife consistently, they might be able to note this simply from recalling the signs and symptoms shared in your campaign or workshop.
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"It is important not ignore the small flags," Dr Mkhize continues.
He further shares way in which we can identify signs and symptoms of depression. He also share how and where to ask for help if you feel the urge to take your own life:
Contact the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): 080 045 6789.
SADAG Office number: 078 278-7047.
Or visit the website for other ways to seek help.
Suicide crisis line: (0800) 12 13 14
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