Story perspectives

Students Confront Bullying and Suicide in Awareness Campaign

9/22/2025

Summary

Story summary

Teto Secondary School in Welkom, Free State, held a Suicide Prevention Campaign where students discussed their experiences with bullying and suicide attempts.
One student shared her three suicide attempts, leading to a three-month recovery after hospitalization.
The campaign aimed to raise mental health awareness among South African youth.
From January to August 2025, over 160 suicide attempts and four completions were reported.
Experts noted that bullying, family pressures, and socio-economic issues contribute to the mental health crisis in schools.

History

Historical Context

South Africa's shift to democracy in 1994 marked a pivotal change in its social landscape, yet mental health issues persist. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group reports that 1 in 6 individuals face mental health challenges. Teto Secondary School's 2025 campaign, responding to over 160 suicide attempts, underscores the urgent need for addressing bullying and socio-economic pressures to enhance youth mental health support.

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Story summary

Teto Secondary School in Welkom, Free State, held a Suicide Prevention Campaign where students discussed their experiences with bullying and suicide attempts.
One student shared her three suicide attempts, leading to a three-month recovery after hospitalization.
The campaign aimed to raise mental health awareness among South African youth.
From January to August 2025, over 160 suicide attempts and four completions were reported.
Experts noted that bullying, family pressures, and socio-economic issues contribute to the mental health crisis in schools.

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