21 November 2022
SADAG has been notified of a very disturbing video circulating on social media and online platforms of the tragic suicide of a young man at a Shopping Mall in Soweto this past weekend. Firstly, we want to extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and loved ones. We would like to offer them any counselling and support during this very difficult time.
Due to the sensitive nature of the developing case, and the tragic end which resulted in the loss of life – a life that may be someone’s son, brother, uncle, best friend or colleague – and out of respect for the grieving family and friends, we appeal to the public NOT to share the video on any social media platforms. We ask that communities are sensitive to the young man’s family during this difficult time.
We appreciate all those who've already reported the content and warned others against watching, engaging or sharing such videos on any platform, out of respect for the person and their family.
By sharing the video across different platforms, it could further re-traumatise people when the video plays on their social news feeds. Instead of sharing, liking or retweeting the video, we urge the public to rather report or flag the video to the respective social media platforms so that it can be removed.
We also want to urge the public not to watch the video as it can be very triggering and upsetting.
During this time, we would like to ask journalists and media to be mindful of the Responsible Reporting Guidelines for Suicide, and we urge the media to not share or hyperlink the online video in any articles related to this tragic story. It is also not important to include the details of the suicide as this could be triggering for readers or viewers, and out of respect for his life and his family, the details are not necessary.
If you have been triggered by the content or are feeling depressed, hopeless or have thoughts of suicide or harming yourself – or you know of someone who may be at risk, please reach out to SADAG’s 24-hour toll-free Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0800 567 567. You can also contact a SADAG counsellor via 0800 456 789 or 0800 21 22 23, or alternatively, SMS 31393 and a counsellor will call you back. You can also WhatsApp (8 am – 5 pm, 7 days a week) 076 882 2775 to chat with a counsellor. Or visit www.sadag.org for more help and resources.
