Choose to live movement

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As a country, we are facing a crisis of suicide. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group reported that there are 23 known cases of suicide in South Africa every day, and for every person that commits suicide,10 have attempted it. Since, September last year, SADAG said the number of calls had risen to 2 200 calls a day — an increase of nearly 40%. Author, Nthabiseng Ngoepe is taking a stand and saying it’s time to speak out and demystify mental health issues. A suicide survivor herself, she wants to cast the spotlight on the issue and help others who are struggling with suicidal thoughts. 

“Suicide is not a one-off attempt. Once you have been in the dark corner and were comfortable to try, it is easy to go back to that place when things feel too much or overwhelming,” said Nthabiseng. She said you must constantly renew your mind and feed it with thoughts that will not allow you to end up back in that place. On April 2, she launched the #Choosetolivemovement at the Fusion Boutique Hotel in Polokwane. This movement was propelled by her own life experiences and the number of suicide that have received media attention. “Some prominent people have died at the hands of suicide and that is the few that are known. They are a lot of others that we don’t know about in our communities. Every day there is someone who commits suicide or attempts it. We need to take action and extend a helping hand. Through #choosetolive I want to offer the platform where people can reach out and feel safe to share their struggles and take the first step to say I’m ready to fight for my life,” said Nthabiseng.

Besides sharing her story, she also had professionals who gave advice and insight on the issue. Dr. Mandu Selepe, clinical psychologist, and Cathy Mphirima, life coach. Cathy spoke about stepping into your purpose. She encouraged people to find what is that there are passionate about and start doing that. It is said that living a purposeful life is fulfilling and can help when you find yourself at a helpless stage of your life. Dr. Mandu shared that suicide can be brought into one’s life for several reasons; it can be depression, stress, or other factors. She encouraged people to seek help because mental unwellness is a serious challenge. 

Nthabiseng's plans with #choosetolivemovement is to spread awareness and offer support. “We plan to host more events to offer people the platform to share their stories or come listen to find some answers and help. We will be working with professionals as we aim to save lives and we can do that when we arm people with the right tools and information,” said Nthabiseng
- Nthabiseng Ngoepe

CHOOSE TO LIVE MOVEMENT

MEDIA COVERAGE

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WELLNESS & WHOLENESS 2023