The Cape community came together on Tuesday afternoon [September 22] to help save a man who was threatening to jump off a bridge on the R300 over the N2 highway. Traffic came to a standstill on Wednesday afternoon when people along the highway gathered on the road to convince a man who was apparently suicidal, to climb off the bridge.
In a video posted by One Second Telegram you can see a man dangling off the bridge, with cars and trucks driving past underneath him. Then a man appears, leans over and tries to help him, a group of people suddenly rush over and hold on tight to pull him up.
No further information is available about why the man attempted to jump off or whether he was hospitalised after.
Some alarming statistics on suicide:
– For every suicide there are many more people who attempt suicide every year. A prior suicide attempt is the single most important risk factor for suicide in the general population
– Suicide is the third leading cause of death in 15-19-year-olds
– 79% of global suicides occur in low- and middle-income countries
– Ingestion of pesticide, hanging and firearms are among the most common methods of suicide globally
Here are hotlines and websites on how to prevent a suicide and where to get help for yourself or a loved one in South Africa:
Lifeline: http://lifelinesa.co.za/
Helpline: 0861-322-322
The South African Depression and Anxiety Support Group: http://www.sadag.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1496&Itemid=59
Helpline: 0800 21 22 23 (8am to 8pm)
Helpline: 0800 12 13 14 (8pm to 8am)
SMS 31393
Picture: One Second Telegram