Limpopo Social Development MEC Hon Florence Radzilani speaks at the University of Limpopo’s Suicide Awareness Day and Gender-Based Violence Programme at Onkgopotse Tiro Hall. Photos: Molebogeng Ledwaba
Limpopo Social Development MEC urges students and communities to recognise signs of distress and start conversations about mental health
By Mikateko Mohlala – ulpublications@ul.ac.za
Limpopo Social Development MEC Hon Florence Radzilani has called on students and communities to look out for one another and take action when they notice signs of emotional distress
Hon Radzilani was speaking at the University of Limpopo’s Suicide Awareness Day and Gender-Based Violence Programme.
“We need to look out for each other, especially when we see someone struggling, so that we can offer support and help prevent suicide,” she said.
The programme was held under the theme: “Changing the Narrative on Suicide: Call for Action, Start the Conversation, Break the Stigma, Prioritise Mental Health.”
It brought together students and university stakeholders to raise awareness about suicide prevention, mental health and gender-based violence.
Hon Radzilani said preventing suicide could not be left to professionals and institutions alone. She stressed the importance of supportive communities where people experiencing emotional difficulties can speak openly and seek help before their situation worsens.
The programme sought to move the conversation beyond awareness by encouraging people to recognise warning signs, have difficult conversations and connect those in need with appropriate support.
Anna Mabina from the Centre for Student Counselling and Development and Abram Chuene from the Student Health and Wellness Centre at UL shared messages of support, highlighting the importance of students seeking help when they are struggling with personal, emotional or mental health challenges.
Their contributions reinforced the role of university support services in providing students with a safe place to talk about their challenges and access assistance.
Prof Shai Nkoana, an associate professor in the Department of Psychology, approached the issue from a research perspective, stressing that everyone has a role to play in supporting people experiencing mental health difficulties.
“You don’t have to be a medical professional to help someone dealing with mental health issues,” he said.
The programme also featured poetry and drama performances, messages of support, keynote addresses, a question-and-answer session and reflections.
The speakers encouraged students to pay attention to changes in the behaviour of friends, classmates and colleagues, start conversations when they are concerned and encourage those who are struggling to seek professional support.
Speakers call for collective action to prevent suicide during the University of Limpopo’s Suicide Awareness Day and Gender-Based Violence Programme.
“We need to look out for each other, especially when we see someone struggling, so that we can offer support and help prevent suicide.”