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PROJECT: SUICIDE AWARENESS MONTH - SEPTEMBER 2024

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September is aptly dedicated to suicide awareness, as statistics show that most suicides are committed in Spring.

Support a friend or loved one, as this is a crucial step in suicide prevention.


In South Africa, 23 suicides are recorded each day, with an additional 230 serious attempts.

 

People struggling with suicidal thoughts feel isolated and misunderstood. Being there for someone, offering support,

and encouraging them to seek help can be life-saving. Suicide is often a response to overwhelming emotional pain,

and many people who feel this way can recover with the correct help. It is also imperative that we continue to inform

and educate the public regarding this growing crisis.

 

UNDERSTANDING THE CRISES AND COMMON RISK FACTORS:

The reasons behind suicidal thoughts can be complex and varied. Life challenges like grief, financial strain, relationship breakdowns, or trauma can drive individuals into a state of hopelessness. Sometimes, the emotional pain becomes so overwhelming that death seems like the only escape. It is essential to recognise when someone may be struggling and intervene early.


Common risk factors:

  • Recent loss (loved ones, jobs, relationships, or pets).

  • Mental illness or physical injuries.

  • Major disappointments (e.g., failed exams, missed promotions).

  • Financial or legal difficulties.

  • Trauma, such as accidents, rape, or witnessing violence.

  • Family history of suicide.

 

WARNING SIGNS:

  • Talking about feeling hopeless or trapped.

  • Withdrawing from loved ones.

  • Changes in mood, behaviour, or sleep patterns.

  • Losing interest in activities they once enjoyed.

  • Giving away prized possessions.

  • Sudden calmness after a period of depression (this could signal they have decided to take their own life).

 

PREVENTION:

Supporting someone at risk of suicide requires sensitivity, patience, and understanding.

If you suspect someone is in danger, do not hesitate to reach out.


  • Start the conversation: 

    • Be direct but gentle.

    • Ask them about their feelings and if they are considering suicide.

    • Let them know it is necessary to talk about their struggles.

  • Listen without judgment: 

    • Allow them to express their feelings openly.

    • Avoid dismissing their pain or arguing about the morality of suicide.

    • Simply being there and showing you care can be powerful.

  • Offer hope, not reassurance: 

    • Let them know there are alternatives, but avoid saying things like "everything will be fine" if it does not feel true to them.

    • Offer your presence as a source of support.

  • Get involved: 

    • Do not be afraid to take action.

    • If they are in immediate danger, stay with them and remove any potential means of harm (like weapons or pills).

  • Reach out for help: 

    • You do not have to handle the situation alone.

    • Contact a mental health professional or a crisis intervention service for guidance.

    • You can also encourage them to reach out to local support.

 

SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group)

SADAG offers helplines that are available to anyone seeking assistance, whether for themselves or someone else:

  • 0800 21 22 23 (08:00 to 20:00)

  • 0800 12 13 14 (08:00 to 20:00)

  • SMS 31393 for help

SADAG provides free access to trained counsellors who can help assess the situation and connect you to local counsellors, support groups, or mental health facilities.


Lifeline South Africa

Lifeline provides 24-hour telephonic counselling and support to individuals in emotional distress:

  • 0861 322 322 (24-hour helpline)

  • Lifeline also offers face-to-face counselling and trauma debriefing sessions at local centres.


Suicide Crisis Helpline

For more urgent cases, the Suicide Crisis Helpline provides immediate support to people in need:

  • 0800 567 567 (toll-free)


Childline South Africa

If you are concerned about a child or young person, Childline offers support for children in distress:

  • 0800 055 555 (24-hour toll-free helpline)


The South African Federation for Mental Health

This organisation promotes mental health awareness and provides resources and information about mental health services across the country. It can also help connect individuals with local mental health professionals and support groups.

  • 011 781 1852

 

Specialised Security Services invites the public to the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Group.

This group is important in delivering insights into the latest crime trends, awareness, warnings and the exposure of criminals.


HOW TO JOIN THE MIKE BOLHUIS DAILY PROJECTS WHATSAPP GROUP:

 
CONTACT MR MIKE BOLHUIS FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES, PROTECTION, OR AN INVESTIGATION IF NEEDED.

ALL INFORMATION RECEIVED WILL BE TREATED IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENTIALITY AND EVERY IDENTITY WILL BE PROTECTED.
 

Regards,

Mike Bolhuis

Specialist Investigators into

Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes

PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949

Mobile: +27 82 447 6116

Fax: 086 585 4924

Follow us on Facebook to view our projects -


EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: All potential clients need to be aware that owing to the nature of our work as specialist investigators there are people who have been caught on the wrong side of the law - who are trying to discredit me - Mike Bolhuis and my organisation Specialised Security Services - to get themselves off the hook. This retaliation happens on social media and creates doubt about our integrity and ability. Doubt created on social media platforms is both unwarranted and untrue. We strongly recommend that you make up your minds concerning me and our organisation only after considering all the factual information - to the exclusion of hearsay and assumptions. Furthermore, you are welcome to address your concerns directly with me should you still be unsatisfied with your conclusions. While the internet provides a lot of valuable information, it is also a platform that distributes a lot of false information. The distribution of false information, fake news, slander and hate speech constitutes a crime that can be prosecuted by law. Your own research discretion and discernment are imperative when choosing what and what not to believe.


STANDARD RULES APPLY: Upon appointment, we require a formal mandate with detailed instructions. Please take note that should you not make use of our services – you may not under any circumstance use my name or the name of my organisation as a means to achieve whatever end.


POPI ACT 4 of 2013 South Africa: Mike Bolhuis' "Specialised Security Services" falls under Section 6 of the act. Read more here: https://mikebh.link/fntdpv

 
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Our mailing address is:

Mike Bolhuis Specialised Security Services

PO Box 15075 Lynn East

Pretoria, Gauteng 0039

South Africa

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