By Deon van der Merwe, Clinical Psychologist
Youth Month is a time to honour the courage, resilience, and potential of our young people — but it’s also a time to acknowledge the silent battles many of them face.
As a clinical psychologist, I have worked with countless teenagers over the years. Some carry visible scars; others hide theirs behind good grades, humour, or a carefully constructed image on social media. One of the most heartbreaking realities I continue to witness is the rise in teen suicide, often rooted in untreated depression, bullying, trauma, or a deep sense of hopelessness.
They Are Listening, Even If They’re Not Talking
Teens might not always express their pain in words. Sometimes it comes out as withdrawal, anger, risk-taking, or even perfectionism. These aren’t just “mood swings” — they can be warning signs of something deeper.
Many teens today face overwhelming pressures: academic performance, identity struggles, cyberbullying, unstable home environments, and a constant comparison to others online. When they feel unheard or misunderstood, they may begin to believe the lie that the world would be better without them.
Signs to Look Out For:
- Talking or joking about suicide, even casually
- Withdrawing from friends and activities
- Drastic changes in mood, sleep, or appetite
- Giving away possessions
- Expressing feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Sudden calmness after a period of depression (which can be a sign they’ve made a decision)
If you are a parent, teacher, or friend — trust your gut. Ask the hard question: “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?” It’s a myth that talking about suicide puts the idea in someone’s head. In fact, it shows you care.
👐 What Can We Do?
- Listen without judgment.
Put your phone down. Make eye contact. Let them speak freely, even if what they say is uncomfortable.
- Normalise help-seeking behaviour.
Seeing a therapist or psychologist isn’t a weakness. It’s an act of courage.
- Create safe spaces.
Whether it’s at home, school, or online — teens need places where they can be real, not perfect.
- Educate.
Youth Month is a perfect opportunity for schools and parents to bring mental health into the conversation — openly and honestly.
- Stay present.
You don’t need all the answers. Just being consistently available, showing up, and following up can make all the difference.
💬 A Message to Teens:
If you’re reading this and you’re struggling — you are not alone. There is help, and there is hope. You matter more than you know. Please reach out, even if it feels scary. Talking about your pain doesn’t make you weak. It makes you human.
📞 If you need support, you are welcome to contact me directly at 079 268 0724 or email [email protected]. I’m here to help.
Let’s honour Youth Month not just with celebration — but with compassion, connection, and courageous conversations.
Warmly,
Deon van der Merwe
Clinical Psychologist
www.deonvdmerwe.co.za